Dutch energy cooperative WeertEnergie and energy company Eneco have started the construction of the onshore wind farm Weert. Three wind turbines will be installed along the A2 motorway near Weert. The turbines are planned to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2022. Combined these will generate more than 30,000MWh annually.
The initiators secured funding for the project at the end of April through a loan from Rabobank Weerterland en Cranendonck. With the financing in place, this allowed for the construction activities to start.
The work will start with the construction and reinforcement of the roads and the realization of crane hardstands. The foundations for the turbines will be realized next. The choice was made for Enercon turbines with a hub height of 130 meters and a tip height of 200 meters. The components for these wind turbines will be supplied this autumn.
Cooperative approach
WeertEnergie and Eneco have opted for a cooperative approach in the development of Weert Wind Farm. The parties indicate they have looked as much as possible to involve local and regional companies in the construction phase. For example, WATT Infra from Geldrop and Kiggen from Weert are responsible for the civil and electrical works.
In addition, an Environmental Fund has been set up. One euro of every MWh generated goes to the Environmental Fund (omgevingsfonds). This adds up to a total of approximately EUR 30,000 per year. This money can be used to finance sustainable and socially responsible projects of local residents in the area. Source: Eneco
