The site
Using aquathermal energy (in combination with geothermal energy) from canal Leuven-Dijle for fossil-free heating of a new development on the Ragheno-site next to the canal.
Status
Feasibility study.
Next step: present results to the developer
What can we learn from the pilot?
1. Convincing the developer to include AE in their energy concept (and possibly make an additional pre investment)
2. Possible extension of the heat network to existing buildings.
What other district heating will be used?
Geothermal energy (BTES)
More information
Mechelen is the 5 biggest city in Flanders with a population of 87.000 inhabitants. The city is located in the region Rivierenland (‘Land of Rivers’). Mechelen is one of the frontrunner cities in Flanders with a local sustainable heat strategy. It has screened the potential of renewable heat sources including geothermal and aquathermal energy. As a next step, it wants to set-up a local supporting (policy) framework to unlock the development of heat projects with aquathermal energy. Mechelen is the only local authority that is currently involved in a Flemish policy working group led by VWW (Flemish Waterways). Lastly but equally important, Mechelen has a a promising local energy cooperative Klimaan emerging in recent years, enabling citizens to participate and invest in local renewable energy projects.
Next to the large scale implementation site in Mechelen, there will also be a smaller pilot in the city.
