Large Dutch geothermal project delayed

The realization of the large Dutch horticultural geothermal project Trias Westland has suffered a delay of almost half a year. Reason for this delay is the search for an appropriate party to realize the drilling as main contractor, but drilling companies still appear not to be equipped for such a role. It was therefore decided to contract the drilling activities separately and that the project team would take the controlling role.

In late December all requests for quotation, related to the drilling, were sent. Meanwhile, approximately 85% of these quotations were received. These proposals are in line with the investment estimates. This month negotiations with the tendering parties will start and we will proceed to the provisional award. Also this month, the banks will start their decision making process. Next, the arrangements must be worked out in the financing documents. Trias is on track to ‘financial close’ and will start realization by late April.

Now that the realization of the project draws closer, communication with persons, businesses and institutions such as schools, in the neighborhood becomes more important as well. By taking traffic measures in advance and by informing the road users well, Trias is limiting nuisance and ensures an as safe as possible construction. They are and will remain in dialogue with local residents, businesses and institutions to see what they can do to avoid problems and to limit nuisance during construction.

The project team held a first informative meeting in September for residents closest to the project and a second consultation will follow this spring. They also will intensively coordinate works with provincial authorities who are preparing the infra-structure works for the area. Since last autumn, an area manager is involved in the Trias Westland project. The area manager is the central, approachable point of contact for local residents, businesses and institutions.