Energy-positive milestone: Dutch water authority Amstel, Gooi and Vecht now generates more energy than it consumes

Figure in the photo from left to right:  Rosan Kocken, Sander Mager, Zita Pels & Dion van Steensel (HVC) 

Wind power takes shape in Amsterdam 

Over the course of eight nights, the wind turbines were assembled piece by piece from the central reservation using a 160-metre-high crane. Together, the turbines generate around 21,000 megawatt-hours of green electricity per year – equivalent to the annual consumption of 10,000 households in Amsterdam. These four wind turbines are part of approximately seventeen new turbines that the City of Amsterdam aims to install in the coming years. 

Powerd by more than just wind 

This energy-positive status is thanks to a smart mix of renewable energy sources. In addition to wind power, the water authority also relies on over 20,000 solar panels and one of the largest green gas installations in the country, producing bio-gas from sewage sludge. For the development and operation of the wind farm, the water authority partnered with sustainable waste and energy company HVC, co-owner of the turbines.  

“I’m incredibly proud that we are one of the first water authorities to generate more energy than we use through sustainable energy sources. We are constantly looking for ways to contribute to the energy transition. But this doesn’t mean we can sit back. The demand for energy will continue to rise due to the growing city of Amsterdam and the increasing number of substances we need to remove from wastewater,” said Sander Mager, board member of the water authority. He also thanked all Waternet colleagues who contributed to the realisation of the wind turbines. 

Collaboration that drives acceleration 

The development, construction and operation of the wind farm was the result of a close collaboration between Water Authority Amstel, Gooi and Vecht and HVC. 

“HVC is proud of this strong collaboration with the water authority – one of our shareholders – whom we support in its journey towards sustainability. The Dutch energy landscape is changing, which calls for local solutions, innovation and strong partnerships. Only together can we accelerate the energy transition,” said Dion van Steensel, CEO of HVC. 

Energy-positive (for now) – and looking ahead 

While the water authority currently produces more energy than it consumes, energy demands are rising. Rapid urban growth, stricter water quality standards, and the effects of climate change all mean higher energy consumption for pumping and treatment. That’s why the authority continues to explore new ways to save energy and expand renewable energy production. 

On the road to climate neutrality 

The four wind turbines alone prevent over 14.4 kilotonnes of CO₂ emissions per year – around 20% of the water authority’s total footprint. They are a significant step towards the goal of becoming climate neutral by 2030. The water authority is also exploring promising alternatives like aquathermal energy – using heat from wastewater and surface water – to provide future-proof, fossil-free heating for buildings and homes. 

A symbol of progress 

At the wind park’s opening, a Delft blue ceramic tile was unveiled, featuring an illustration of the wind turbines and solar panels. The tile will be given a permanent place at WWTP West as a lasting tribute to this landmark achievement in the Dutch water sector’s energy transition. 

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