Novar is developing a solar park in combination with agriculture near the Zeelandsedijk. February 8, 2024, we submitted a tender for this in the municipal tender. We are developing a solar park that also has added value for the surrounding area. That is why we want to involve as many residents and stakeholders as possible and let them benefit.
For more information, email michiel.terbeek@novar.nl or liza.koch@novar.nl
The Zeelandsedijk plan area is located in Volkel on the southeast side of Uden in the Maashorst municipality. Next to the plan area is Volkel Air Base and Zie-Zoo zoo. Across the road (Zeelandsedijk) lies the Hoogveld industrial area.
Novar chose this site based on the June 2021 policy memorandum on large-scale solar and wind energy generation in Maashorst. The project site is 19.8 hectares, of which we will use about 6 hectares for the solar panels. 10 hectares will remain available for agriculture between the panels. The remaining acres will be used for landscaping.
We want to develop the solar park so that it fits in with its surroundings. Due to the presence of fertile farmland, the planning area is well suited for dual space use. Through AgriPV, the solar park generates solar energy and the farmer grows crops under and between the panels. In this way, we preserve the agricultural use of the land, while integrating the power generation function.
Part of the project plan is the installation of an energy storage system (battery) at the solar park. At this solar park, we will realize a 10MW/40MWh battery. When the electricity grid is overloaded, the battery will be used to supply or withdraw stored electricity, thus preventing grid congestion.
Our process
Currently, we are still in the beginning of the process. We have held initial discussions with the surrounding area and local interest groups, and a walk-in evening has been organized. The input collected has been incorporated into the project proposal where possible. On February 8, 2024, we submitted this project proposal for the municipal tender. In early May 2024, the municipality will let us know which projects can proceed in order to proceed with the development towards the permit application.
Should the decision be made in our favor, this does not yet mean that we will be allowed to build the solar field. There will first be a participation process with the surrounding area, studies still need to be conducted, and technical calculations and drawings still need to be made. However, the municipality will only decide on granting the permit once it has been submitted.
When we are told in May that we may proceed with the permit application, we will take up further development with the local energy cooperative Uleco. They will become 50% local owners of the solar park. This means that residents of the Maashorst municipality will be able to invest and benefit from the proceeds of the solar farm through Uleco.
Maybe you can immediately find the answer at the frequently asked questions about this solar farm. FAQ solar farm Zeelandsedijk - feb 2024.pdf
For other questions or comments, please contact us at michiel.terbeek@novar.nl or liza.koch@novar.nl
The energy task of the Maashorst municipality is 0.15 TWh in 2030. The municipality will fill this task with sustainable energy. Once solar panels have been installed on all suitable buildings in Maashorst (40% of the task) and 25% energy savings have been achieved, sustainable energy must also be generated on land in order to meet the targets. This remaining energy demand can be met by using 55 hectares of land for solar panels.
With an area of approximately 20 hectares and an expected generation of around 17,200 MWh/year, the Zeelandsedijk solar farm can make a valuable contribution to the energy transition.
Last edited February 21, 2024
