Lelystad explores geothermal heating network to cut gas dependency in central district
Residents of Lelystad’s central district could soon switch to a sustainable heating network powered by geothermal energy, reducing CO₂ emissions by 90% and easing pressure on the electricity grid. The project aims to provide an affordable, natural gas-free alternative for both new and existing buildings.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Parties Involved | Municipality of Lelystad, HVC |
| Project | District heating network using geothermal energy |
| Target Area | Central district (including Heart of the City programme) |
| CO₂ Reduction | ~90% lower emissions compared to gas boilers |
| Feasibility Study Deadline | Autumn 2026 |
| Key Buildings | St Jansdal hospital, Theatre Field IV and V developments |
| Sustainable Benefit | Reduces strain on electricity grid, offers affordable heating alternative |
The Municipality of Lelystad is responsible for local infrastructure and sustainability initiatives, including the transition to natural gas-free neighborhoods. HVC, a regional energy and waste management company, collaborates with municipalities to develop sustainable energy solutions like district heating networks.
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Municipality of Lelystad and HVC to conduct further research into a natural gas-free central district
The Municipality of Lelystad and HVC have signed a letter of intent to explore the possibility of establishing a district heating network in the central district. They will jointly investigate whether such a network is technically and financially feasible. The aim is to heat both new and existing buildings in the future without relying on natural gas. The proposed sustainable source for this heating network is geothermal energy.
Sustainable energy solution
The district heating network offers a natural gas-free and sustainable energy solution for both the new residential buildings in the Heart of the City programme and existing buildings in the central district. Compared to other energy alternatives, a district heating network places significantly less strain on the overburdened electricity grid, as it utilises geothermal energy. Research shows that geothermal energy is a stable heat source that can alleviate pressure on the electricity grid. This is particularly important at a time when grid congestion is becoming an increasingly pressing issue. Additionally, the CO₂ emissions from geothermal energy are approximately 90% lower than those from a gas boiler. Alderman Sjaak Kruis welcomes this next step towards developing a district heating network in the central district: “By further exploring this alternative, we are giving the housing construction in the Heart of the City a sustainability boost. The goal is to connect the new St Jansdal hospital and the new developments on Theatre Field IV and V to the heating network. At the same time, the heating network provides a sustainable and affordable alternative to natural gas for existing buildings in the central district.”
Feasibility study
The municipality and HVC will continue their research to determine whether the district heating network is financially and technically viable. “District heating networks play a crucial role in the energy transition, especially in areas where the electricity grid is under pressure,” says Arjan ten Elshof, Director at HVC. “With this research, we are taking further steps in exploring the possibilities for a natural gas-free central district.”
Next steps
The feasibility study is scheduled for completion in autumn 2026. If the research confirms that a district heating network is both feasible and affordable, the municipality and HVC intend to collaborate further to implement the network in the central district, bringing a natural gas-free Lelystad one significant step closer.”