Overloaded power grid
The Utrecht region, like many other parts of the Netherlands, is facing serious grid congestion. The electricity grid is full, causing many crucial construction and sustainability projects to stall. Companies and developers simply cannot get connected to the power grid anymore. For De Nieuwe Tuin, this would mean that the building would remain vacant for even longer, with all the negative consequences for the city and the economy.
Urban development still possible
Together with Stedin, a smart solution has now been found: the building will function as a grid congestion reliever. This stabilizes the electricity grid and allows the redevelopment of De Nieuwe Tuin to start. Two generators will be placed in the basement of the building, which will only be activated during peak demand moments. This is a temporary emergency solution for a maximum of ten years, until Stedin has expanded the electricity grid.
Warmold ten Zijthoff, regional director Utrecht at Stedin: 'We are very pleased that we have come to good agreements to make this possible. It requires willingness and a different way of thinking from all parties. We also want the development of the city to continue; we are happy to contribute to what is possible while ensuring supply security. De Nieuwe Tuin is an excellent example of that.'
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Safety first
The generators ensure that the power grid is relieved during peak moments, reducing grid congestion. The principle is to minimize inconvenience to the surroundings, and safety is paramount in everything. The installation has been fully assessed against legal frameworks for noise, air quality, and emissions. The generators are placed in the basement to prevent noise disturbance, and special filters minimize CO2 and nitrogen emissions. The impact on the total emissions of the city of Utrecht remains limited.
Maarten Briët, co-head Real Estate Netherlands at Schroders Capital: 'We are proud that with this pragmatic solution we set an example of how urgent urban development can proceed, despite the infrastructural challenges. The transformation of Het Gildenkwartier shows that sustainable redevelopment and innovative partnerships go hand in hand. This solution is the necessary bit of gray to make more green possible.'
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Multiple benefits for Utrecht
The energy transition has proven not to be a straight line. With this solution, there is supply security, and construction can continue on the energy system of the future. The building, which has been vacant since the departure of Rabobank in 2013, can now finally be prepared for a new user. This improves social safety in the station area, preserves architectural history, and creates jobs in the city of Utrecht.
The construction of De Nieuwe Tuin will start in February 2026. The building will be fully sustainable and transformed into a Paris Proof office building, making it very energy-efficient with low CO2 emissions. The completion is scheduled for early 2028.
Impact Energy has played a key role as a total energy manager by identifying necessary market parties, coordinating contracts, and managing market risks. Kennedy van der Laan lawyers have legally assisted Schroders Capital and Boelens de Gruyter. Zeppelin Power is realizing the installation of the generators, in collaboration with contractors Dura Vermeer and Bosman, and will provide full maintenance management of the installation for the next 10 years. Emmet Green has been appointed as Congestion Service Provider (CSP) for the management of the installation. All parties have closely collaborated to realize this innovative solution.
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