As we are currently renovating many buildings in the University Quarter or have the ambition to do so, it is the right time to enhance energy efficiency. Sustainability is essential for the future of our real estate, as outlined in the goals of the Climate Agreement ('Paris Proof'), the municipality's ambitions (gas-free by 2040) and the UvA's commitment documented in the White Paper on Sustainability  (PDF, 19 pages) and further detailed in the Energy Transition road map (in Dutch).

One measure to make the real estate in the University Quarter more sustainable is an area-oriented approach through the installation of an ATES network. In this approach, several ATES systems are connected to create a network for the energy supply of UvA buildings in the area. The advantage of a network is that not every building needs its own source, preventing over- or undercapacity. The network can balance a surplus or shortage in energy demand among the buildings or sources within the network.
 

The ATES network project is currently in the design phase. We depend on other parties for the continuation of this project, such as the municipality of Amsterdam for Works In the Public Space (WIOR) permits and the Environmental Services North Sea Canal Area for Water Act permits.

As part of the WIOR application, we are in discussions with the municipality, utility parties and advisers regarding the use of available space underground. This will ultimately lead to a final design.

The design process is forecast to be completed by the end of 2024. In the most favourable scenario, work on this project could commence in 2025. Market developments, project timetables for UvA buildings and obtaining the necessary permits are determining factors for the final feasibility and planning.