Dutch renewable energy research gains momentum with ultra-low emission microgrid

A geothermal energy research project in the Netherlands has been able to continue its important research into the energy transition thanks to the installation of an ultra-low emission microgrid from global energy solutions provider Aggreko.

The project is being led by the Dutch state-backed Energie Beheer Nederland (EBN) based in Utrecht and involves testing several onshore wells to determine whether they are suitable for extracting geothermal energy. If successful, the project has the potential to become a reliable and stable source of low-carbon and renewable heat that is not dependent on weather conditions.

EBN needed a solution that could provide up to 2,600 kW of peak power for its drilling rig while meeting ambitious emissions targets that went beyond the strict Dutch government regulations. A conventional temporary power solution would not meet these conditions, meaning the project could not continue operating.

As a specialist in power and thermal control, Aggreko presented EBN with several alternative emission reduction options for review. The final microgrid solution consisted of Aggreko’s latest Stage V PowerMX2 twin-engine generator in a load-on-demand application with a battery. This solution provided peak power to the drill while reducing emissions during lower loads or when the machine was idle.

In addition to achieving the goals set by EBN, Aggreko’s sustainable solution It was also possible to achieve a reduction in NOx emissions by up to 90%.

Siebe Viersen, Senior Drilling Manager at EBN, said: “This project allows us to assess the potential of geothermal heat and thus increase the chance of successful heating projects for homes and buildings in the Netherlands. This is part of our commitment to sustainability, something that Aggreko shares, making them a solid partner for our exciting research.”

Loesje van Dongen, Sector Account Manager at Aggreko added: “Unlike other renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, geothermal energy is not weather dependent, making it a sustainable and reliable commodity, and a key enabler of a sustainable energy future – something we at Aggreko are heavily invested in. This project is a prime example of how we are supporting the energy transition through our sustainability framework, Energising Change. Essentially, it sets out a series of initiatives and investments that will enable regions and organisations to scale up their approach to a renewable energy future. We are extremely proud to have been involved in enabling this particular project with EBN.”

Aggreko’s Sustainability Framework helps companies on their decarbonisation journey by delivering Greener Upgrades through sustainable technologies and techniques that help reduce carbon emissions and deliver fuel savings. This project in the Netherlands demonstrates how Aggreko is integrating its investment in the latest technologies with innovative thinking to achieve an ultra-low carbon, efficient solution.