Heerlen makes building available for solar energy on roof
The municipality of Heerlen has given the green light for a special sustainability initiative. They are making the roof of the municipal building at Limburgiastraat 34 available for a solar power plant with 180 solar panels. This project was set up by energy cooperative Heerlen Duurzaam. It gives residents the opportunity to invest in these solar panels and to benefit financially from locally generated energy.
The municipality is making the roof of the building available for 25 years. The energy cooperative can use the roof free of charge to install solar panels. The initiative ensures sustainable energy generation and encourages residents to participate.
A solar power plant with profit
The project enables residents within the participating zip codes to invest in Solestra's for €50 each. The expected annual return for participants is between 3.5 and 4%, with a term of 15 years. The solar power plant has an expected annual production of 71,100 kWh. The project is not only financially attractive, but also ensures that the municipal sustainability goals are achieved and that local participation is stimulated.
"With this pilot project, we are not only giving a boost to sustainable energy generation. We are also strengthening the role of the energy cooperative Heerlen Duurzaam as a partner in our transition to a more sustainable Heerlen. Together, we can generate sustainable energy locally and let Heerlen residents benefit directly. So we are taking important steps in our Heerlen Sustainability Offensive for our residents," says Casper Gelderblom , Alderman environment at the municipality of Heerlen.
Planning and participating
The required connection by grid operator Enexis will be done in early 2025. The installation will follow later in 2025 when the financing is in place. The cooperative is looking for at least 17 participants within the postcode area. More participants are welcome. You can register directly on the website of Coöperatie Heerlen Duurzaam. You must be or become a member of the energy cooperative. Participants only pay after signing a contract.