This initiative was started in 2022 by residents who wished to realise a heat network for more than 700 homes. The municipality commissioned Witteveen+Bos to study the technical and financial feasibility of these plans in close collaboration with the initiating residents. This project illustrates Witteveen+Bos’ multidisciplinary expertise in the realisation of heat projects in which technical, financial and organisational aspects come together in an integrated manner – with the active engagement of local residents.

Our role involved analysing various system configurations, calculating their financial feasibility and studying organisational models for the heat network operator. In the initial phase of the study, we compared alternative heat systems, including thermal energy from surface water (TES) and thermal energy from wastewater (TEW). The analysis revealed that thermal energy from wastewater is the most suitable option for Kort Haarlem. Alongside technological and economic feasibility, our analysis considered factors such as security of supply, scalability (expansion), grid congestion, urban integration, opportunities and risks.

Our experts then developed the preferred option into a detailed conceptual design, including the dimensioning of systems and a rough route for the heat pipes. We then produced cost estimates and a financial analysis, combined with an exploratory study of possible organisational structures for the heat network operator. We also studied the effects on the business case of a potential expansion of the project area.