First residual heat from PepsiCo factory flows through heat grid in Suikerpark
An important step in sustainable urban development is being taken in Veurne today with the official commissioning of the heat network that uses residual heat from PepsiCo's chip ovens to heat the Suikerpark neighbourhood. This pioneering project, is the result of a unique collaboration between the city of Veurne, grid operator Fluvius, heat supplier Noven, landowner WVI and PepsiCo. The heat network is unique in Belgium because it uses residual heat from an industrial food process instead of heat from waste incineration, as in most existing heat networks.
How does the heat network work?
A heat grid is a sustainable alternative to individual heating systems. The grid transports heat generated at a central location to homes and buildings through a network of pipes. In this particular case, residual heat from PepsiCo's manufacturing process is captured and distributed through the heat grid. This heat, which would otherwise be lost, is efficiently used for heating in the new Suikerpark district. This process contributes to lower carbon emissions and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
Innovative and efficient energy supply through cooperation
To heat the more than 500 homes in the natural gas-free district of Suikerpark, several partners worked closely together on this innovative investment. Heat networks with industrial residual heat are an important part of the energy transition, but their roll-out requires technical expertise and financial decisiveness from all parties involved. In the first phase, project developer ION and Fluvius realised the residential heat grid for the district. Subsequently, WVI and Fluvius provided the connection to PepsiCo's chip factory. Noven assumes the role of heat producer and supplier for the heat grid in this project.
Fluvius sees the heat grid as a valuable example for future projects: "Since the announcement, we have been collaborating on a strategy where industrial waste heat is utilised as a sustainable energy source. The realisation of this network in Veurne demonstrates that such collaborations contribute effectively to energy transition in cities and towns," said Karel Van Butsel, Head of Heat at Fluvius.
Novenalso underlines the importance of such projects: "Many buildings still use fossil fuels, leading to dependence on foreign imports and high carbon emissions. Noven wants to provide as many buildings as possible in Belgium with sustainable heating and cooling, while at the same time taking maximum care of customers. We are grateful for the trust of our partners, which allows us to realise this project," says Lara Desimpel, Head of Commercial Operations at Noven.
Sustainability as a core value for PepsiCo
"This heat network is part of our pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) transformation and underlines how sustainability is embedded at the core of our business. As one of the largest employers in Veurne, we believe it is important to use our scale, reach and expertise locally, together with our partners, to break down barriers to decarbonisation and deliver positive change for the local community," says Wim Geuens, Plant Manager of PepsiCo in Veurne.
The impact for Veurne
The Suikerpark district, a major new residential development in Veurne, was designed with sustainability as a core value. By choosing a heat network as its primary heat source from the start, Veurne confirms its commitment to climate-friendly solutions and future-proof urban development. The heat grid also supports the local economy, as PepsiCo plays a key role as a source of residual heat.
Mayor Peter Roose stressed the importance of this milestone: "The launch of the heat network in Suikerpark, announced three years ago, shows what is possible when industry, local government and property developers join forces. This is a project we as a city are immensely proud of. The commissioning of the heat grid is a crucial step in achieving our climate goals."
"Together with the city, we have invested heavily in the sustainable redevelopment of the Sugar Site over the past 20 years. The heat network is the icing on the cake and proves how cooperation and joint financing make pioneering projects possible that contribute to a climate-neutral future," concludes Johan Proot, director of investment projects at WVI.
Veurne Suikerpark is the first heat network in Flanders to use residual heat from chip ovens and shows how cities can embrace circular energy solutions. Unique in West Flanders, this is the first project on a WVI industrial estate in which a production company supplies enough residual heat to heat an entire new neighbourhood. With the commissioning of this heat network, Veurne is taking a pioneering role in energy transition. This project is part of a broader plan to make the city climate-neutral and embed innovative energy solutions in future urban developments.
Eef De Vos