The greenhouse horticulture sector faces a crucial sustainability challenge. With the Municipality of Westland joining the RE-Greenhouse consortium, a fossil-free future is coming closer. This collaboration marks an important step towards an innovative and sustainable greenhouse horticulture industry in the region.
Why this collaboration?
The RE-Greenhouse consortium is an international partnership of eleven parties committed to the sustainability of greenhouse horticulture. The Municipality of Westland is now joining Greenport West Holland and The Hague University of Applied Sciences as the third Dutch partner. The municipality not only brings administrative strength but also valuable knowledge and experience in energy transition and sustainable infrastructure.
Pilot: Westland Heat Network
A key initiative within this collaboration is the Westland Heat Network. This project, introduced by the Municipality of Westland, plays a crucial role in making the greenhouse horticulture sector more sustainable. The network optimizes collective heating solutions, reducing growers’ dependence on fossil fuels.
The Westland Heat Network is expected to save up to 420 million m³ of natural gas annually, leading to a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions. This directly contributes to the climate goals of the region and the Netherlands.
Innovation: Renewable Energy Choice Tool
The European consortium is also developing an innovative Renewable Energy Choice Tool. This digital tool helps greenhouse growers make well-informed decisions about sustainable energy solutions. Thanks to the local expertise of the Municipality of Westland, the tool is better tailored to regional needs and the practical challenges within the sector.
Impact on the region
The Municipality of Westland’s membership not only strengthens the consortium but also brings direct benefits to the region. Greenhouse growers gain access to new technologies and collective infrastructure, contributing to a future-proof and fossil-free sector.
Looking ahead
With this collaboration, the Municipality of Westland is taking a significant step towards a sustainable greenhouse horticulture sector. The Westland Heat Network serves as an example of innovative infrastructure, while the Renewable Energy Choice Tool helps entrepreneurs with their energy transition. Together with international partners, the region is working towards a greener, more efficient, and climate-neutral future.
Factsheet
View the fact sheet on the Westland Heat Network pilot:
Want to learn more? Visit the websites of RE-Greenhouse, Westland Heat Network, and The Hague University of Applied Sciences for the latest developments and insights.