Project highlight: CDS Avermieden

In the Eekerpolder in Groningen, we are developing the largest solar park in the Netherlands. To get the generated energy onto the electricity grid, we are not only building a solar park, we are also building our own private energy network: the closed system (CDS) Avermieden.

With GS Avermieden, we connect large-scale energy generation directly to TenneT’s high-voltage grid.

A new role within the energy system

CDS Avermieden takes over part of the role of a regional grid operator, under supervision, within a defined area. This marks an important milestone for Novar: the first large-scale closed system we have developed and operate ourselves.

We do not just generate energy; we also develop the infrastructure behind it. By connecting directly to TenneT’s high-voltage grid, we create our own access to the national network. This makes large-scale renewable energy projects possible in locations where the regional grid has no capacity.

More than just a connection

CDS Avermieden was designed to be more than a simple grid connection. The system has been deliberately built larger than currently required, leaving room for new applications such as additional generation, offtake, and battery storage, so that the energy we generate can also be stored and deployed later.

CDS Avermieden also makes something possible that is no longer achievable in many parts of the Netherlands: new connections. Where the regional grid is congested, we connect directly to TenneT’s high-voltage network. We step up the energy from Zonnepark Eekerpolder to high voltage, then transport it via our own high-voltage connection to the grid.

Zonnepark Eekerpolder is the first user connected to this system. At the same time, we planned ahead beyond this single project. The transformer station has been built in phases: we are currently using one transformer, with the option to expand to three transformers and corresponding connection capacity in the future.

This creates space now for new projects and future users, a decision that requires investment and forward thinking, but one that makes the system ready for what lies ahead.

Companies looking for a connection or access to renewable energy are welcome to join. This turns CDS Avermieden into a hub within the energy system, a place where generation, offtake, and eventually storage converge.

Building in a complex landscape

Constructing CDS Avermieden requires collaboration with many parties. On a daily basis, we work with landowners, municipalities, water authorities, Rijkswaterstaat, ProRail, and grid operators.

Hundreds of people are working on site simultaneously. This demands tight coordination and clear alignment between all parties involved. Permits, safety, planning, and execution are continuously aligned and adjusted where necessary. We maintain oversight and ensure the work proceeds safely, whatever comes our way.

Giving back to the region

We are developing CDS Avermieden and the surrounding projects with the local environment in mind. The area is being designed to create space for biodiversity. Parts of the site remain open for nature, biodiversity fields are included, and a walking path keeps the landscape accessible to the public.

Wildlife has found its place too. Hares and pheasants move through the area, and birds of prey soar between and beneath the installations. Where the land was once predominantly agricultural, we are now restoring variety and structure to the landscape.

We actively involve the local community. Through energy cooperative Eekerpolder, a share of the revenues flows back to the region, ensuring the project delivers not just energy, but genuine value to the area.

The next steps

CDS Avermieden is complete. The foundation of the energy system is in place. The solar park is now connected and is the first user of the system.

The next step is battery storage. Preparations are well underway, with the aim of starting construction later this year. This will add storage and flexibility to the system, allowing us to further optimise grid use.

Room for the future

CDS Avermieden reflects the way we think about energy. What started as a solution to grid congestion grew into a system where we organize the connection ourselves.

By connecting directly to the high-voltage grid and building the system larger than currently needed, we are creating room for the future, for new projects, new users, and new forms of energy use.

We are not building a standalone connection here. We are building a system that creates space. For today, and for what is yet to come.