Breaking News: VV Wernhout Installs Innovative Heat Buffer System for Sustainable Heating
Date: 25-06-2025 | Reading Time: 7 min
Zundert, June 25, 2025 – In a groundbreaking move, Football Club VV Wernhout has completed the installation of an innovative heat buffer system in its facilities, transitioning away from gas to a sustainable energy model. This initiative, which includes solar collectors and an underground heat storage system, is set to revolutionize the club’s energy efficiency and contribute to broader sustainability goals.
Sustainable Transition After Decades of Gas Dependency
The accommodation of VV Wernhout, built in the 1970s, relied heavily on gas for heating and providing hot water. Recognizing the need for sustainability, the municipality of Zundert proposed replacing gas with a new energy system. This system includes solar collectors, a heat pump, and a heat buffer solution known as “Hocosto.”
What is a Heat Buffer?
A heat buffer utilizes a system of underground bins filled with water, capable of storing heat collected from renewable sources such as solar energy. The stored heat can then be released when needed, ensuring a continuous and sustainable supply of warmth. This technology is particularly beneficial during winter months, when heat collected in summer can be used to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
From Residential Testing to Sports Facility Scale
Before implementing this technology at VV Wernhout, Hocosto successfully tested the heat buffer system in residential settings. The scaling up of this technology to a sports club was a significant challenge, particularly in managing peak heat demands during busy training and game days.
Financial and Environmental Impact
The project required an investment of 502,000 euros, with the club contributing 320,000 euros financed through a loan from the Bank of Dutch Municipalities. Additional financial support came from various subsidies, including 134,000 euros under the Bosa subsidy scheme and 8,800 euros for a heat pump through the ISDE investment program. Hocosto itself contributed 60,000 euros as part of the pilot project.
Energy Efficiency and Smart Systems
The new system has been operational for two years, generating an average of 180,000 kWh annually from solar collectors and 41,000 kWh from solar panels. The efficient energy management software allows for precise control over heating across different areas, significantly reducing energy waste. Features such as automatic temperature and lighting adjustments have optimized the club’s energy consumption and savings.
A Setback and Future Implications
The project faced a setback due to the unavailability of anticipated operating subsidies. However, the long-term benefits remain substantial. The heat buffer system ensures users can enjoy hot showers and warmth even during the coldest winters, making it a reliable and sustainable energy solution.
Expert Insights and Future Developments
“The technology is particularly effective for peak or daily energy management due to fluctuating power prices and production levels,” says Hocosto founder Gerda Geerts. As the demand for green energy continues to rise, smart and flexible energy storage solutions like the heat buffer are expected to become increasingly relevant.
Advice for Other Associations
While integrating such systems into existing buildings can be complex and costly, VV Wernhout’s experience highlights the potential for significant long-term savings and environmental benefits. Jan Hereijgers, former chairman of VV Wernhout, advises, “Integrating this system into new accommodations seems like a great option.”
For More Information
For comprehensive guidelines on available subsidies and making sports accommodations more sustainable, visit the Knowledge Center Sport & Exercise.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on sustainable practices and breakthrough innovations in sports facilities.
