Alfen helps strengthens capacity for Enexis’ with an innovative approach to large-scale expansion of its electricity network
Almere, The Netherlands - 16 January 2025 – In collaboration with Enexis, Alfen has installed its second standardised transport distribution station as part of a large-scale Proof of Concept (PoC) in Nieuwe Pekela (NL). The first station was placed in Roermond in October 2024. This project demonstrates how innovative collaboration and standardisation contribute to Enexis' goal to realise 800 new transport distribution stations over the next eight years in the Dutch provinces of Groningen, Drenthe, Overijssel, North Brabant and Limburg.
Alfen is playing a key role in this initiative, not only as the supplier of the stations but also as the main contractor responsible for coordinating the entire process from laying the foundation and transportation to lifting and placing the stations. Thanks to an innovative method, which prioritises standardisation and modularity, construction time has been reduced from over a year to just four months. This allows Enexis to scale up from 10 to approximately 120 new stations per year. Several additional stations are expected to be commissioned later this year as part of this ongoing project.
Innovation and efficiency to help the Netherlands transition to a more sustainable future
This new construction method combines prefab concrete elements with pre-assembled switchgear, saving time while improving reliability and scalability. With Alfen’s extensive expertise in energy networks and project management, this approach has been successfully implemented to realise grid expansions more efficiently and effectively.
"Europe’s transition to more sustainable energy sources requires scalable and innovative solutions," says Hanno van Maanen, Project Manager at Alfen. "At Alfen, we take pride in contributing to this significant innovation development with our expertise and integrated approach. Together with Enexis and other partners, we are preparing the electricity grid for the future."
Future-ready energy provision in Nieuwe Pekela
The commissioning of the new transport distribution station in Nieuwe Pekela provides additional grid capacity for households and businesses in the region. This means shorter wait times and greater flexibility for customers seeking to adopt sustainable solutions. Moreover, this station contributes to a more stable and future-ready electricity grid in the northern Netherlands.
About Alfen
Alfen specialises in future-proof energy solutions and operates at the heart of Europe's energy transition from fossil fuels to carbon-free and in the fight against climate change. Its intelligent, integrated solutions help Europeans overcome electricity challenges and become climate neutral. Alfen has been innovating for more than 85 years.
Alfen's transformer stations, energy storage systems and EV charging points are already installed in more than 30 countries in Europe.