Earlier this year – in February – construction began on the largest solar park in the Netherlands. A remarkable project, especially because of the partnership with Coöperatie Eekerpolder.
“After six years of paperwork, phone calls, meetings, and no fewer than twelve permits, we can finally see the result of all our hard work: the construction on Solar Park Eekerpolder,” says Erik Nederhoed, project director for Solar Park Eekerpolder. He’s speaking to a group of twenty people gathered in a field tent, shielding them from the wind—right in the heart of where the solar park is being built. Following Erik’s opening remarks, Jelmer Pijlman, CEO of Novar, takes the floor: “We’re standing in the energy landscape of the future,” he says.
And that’s no exaggeration. It’s not only the scale of the project that makes it unique. It’s the partnership with Coöperatie Eekerpolder that truly defines it. “Sustainability, innovation, and collaboration come together beautifully in this project,” Jelmer adds. Jaap Keuning, chairman of Coöperatie Eekerpolder, shares his thoughts on the cooperation:
“This is a vast polder area, and as a community, we want to be part of how it’s shaped. We believe the ecological vision we’ve created will have real value for the region.” – Jaap Keuning, Chairman of Coöperatie Eekerpolder.
Coöperatie Eekerpolder – a local energy cooperative founded by and for residents of Oldambt and Midden-Groningen – is co-owner of the solar park. Across the Netherlands, there’s a strong ambition to achieve 50% local ownership in renewable energy projects. In practice, this is often easier said than done. Local cooperatives face challenges when it comes to time, resources, and funding. Shared ownership means sharing in both the benefits and the responsibilities. But through perseverance and the tireless efforts of dedicated volunteers, this community made it happen.
For this region—where sustainable energy development has often stirred debate—this project offers real local involvement and impact. Think of new opportunities for recreation with a bike path over the dike, nature development with a focus on biodiversity, and a strong financial return for the community. That return will be reinvested into local sustainability and livability initiatives.
Together with Coöperatie Eekerpolder, we’re building a solar park where renewable energy, nature, and recreation go hand in hand. Solar Park Eekerpolder will generate energy using approximately 313,000 solar panels—enough to power over 67,000 households. The park will be connected to our closed distribution system, Avermieden. Since September 2024, we’ve made great progress. During the national Day of Construction, the site was open to the public. One visitor summed it up nicely:
“It’s unbelievable to see what’s being achieved here. As an outsider, you really have no idea how many work hours go into something like this. Hats off!”
Last week, the first solar panels were installed. Curious about how the project is developing? Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates on Avermieden and Eekerpolder.
Do you want to work with us, do you have questions or do you want to pass on a change? Then contact us – we’re happy to help.
