In the progress of the transformation project in Dongen, in which the former office building is undergoing a transformation into 71 modern mid-rent homes, important steps towards sustainability have recently been taken. The installation of heat pumps and the upcoming installation of solar panels are part of these sustainability initiatives.
Three large heat pumps were recently installed, an important step in achieving a natural gas-free residential complex. Heat pumps are heating systems that extract heat from the environment and use it to heat homes. In this particular case, the heat pumps extract energy from the outside air to provide heat to all 71 homes.
The choice of heat pumps is in line with the wider strategy to reduce the project's environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future. In addition to reducing CO2 emissions, heat pumps offer energy-efficient heating, which can result in lower energy costs for future residents.
To complement the heat pumps, installation of solar panels on the roof of the complex will start early next year. Solar panels will generate renewable electricity that can be used for lighting, household appliances and other electrical needs. The synergy between the heat pumps and solar panels will further reduce the project's carbon footprint.
In addition to these sustainability efforts, construction work is progressing on schedule. The contours of the 71 flats are becoming increasingly visible, and completion is tentatively scheduled for summer 2024.