Joint Research on Wind Energy in Diemerscheg

With this agreement, the parties commit to jointly investigate whether and how wind energy is possible in the Diemerscheg area. This does not yet mean a decision on implementation, but an intention for a joint exploration. 

The potential locations are in the municipalities of Diemen and Amsterdam. Both municipalities have conducted extensive research in recent years into the possibilities for wind turbines in the area. Using that information, Diemen and Amsterdam identified several areas where they want to further investigate wind energy, including Diemerscheg. They also gathered opinions and concerns from the local community. The current exploration takes this information into account. Because the project area borders the municipality of Gooise Meren, this municipality is also involved in the exploration. RWS and Staatsbosbeheer are involved as landowners of the area. The Province of North Holland participates in this phase in its coordinating role within the Regional Energy Strategy (RES). 

What does the exploration involve?

In the coming period, the involved parties will investigate the technical and financial feasibility of wind turbines in the area. A plan of approach has been made and the first technical insights have been gathered. This allows the exploration phase to start carefully. Topics of research in the coming period include ecology (the effect on nature and protected species), heritage (the effect on the Holland Waterline), and height restrictions (for example, due to Schiphol flight paths), as well as effects such as shadow flicker and noise. The exploration also takes into account other spatial developments in the area, including the planned reinforcement and adjustment of high-voltage lines and the realization of a high-voltage station.

Participation and role of residents

Participation is also an important part of this exploration, but the exact implementation still needs to be developed. Residents and other stakeholders will have a role in the process: together with the community, it will be investigated how wind energy fits in these locations. No definitive choices have been made yet. It is also being investigated what opportunities exist for local residents to share in the benefits of energy generation. As described in the Climate Agreement (2019), parties strive for 50% local co-ownership.

Follow-up on previous trajectories

The research on wind energy in Diemerscheg is not a new initiative but a continuation of earlier wind energy projects by the municipalities of Diemen and Amsterdam within the framework of the Regional Energy Strategy. This builds on existing agreements and experiences. Each participating municipality has its own role, with differences in pace, involvement, and decisions yet to be made. 

If the exploration phase shows that the project is technically and financially feasible, and there is sufficient confidence that a market party can realize wind turbines, the next step is a cooperation agreement. That is the moment when parties decide whether to look for a developer. If a developer is found, they can apply for a permit. Only when the permit is final may the wind farm be built. The exploration phase is expected to last about one and a half years, until mid-2027. 

More information

For more information, visit the OER Diemerscheg website Opens an external link .