Sustainable energy, local involvement, and room for nature in Oudheusden
Oudheusden, Sunvest, April 2025. Photo credits: Sunvest (Image: south-eastern side of the site)
Hooibroeken Solar Park is now officially operational. From today, the park will supply sustainable energy for the municipality of Heusden, marking an important step in the local energy transition. The project was developed in close collaboration with the energy cooperative Energiek Heusden. A festive opening ceremony is planned for May.
Successful completion at a nature-friendly location
Following a careful construction period, all solar panels have been installed and the park has been connected to the electricity grid. The solar park is located along Polderweg, near the N267 in Oudheusden, covering approximately 24 hectares.
The design has placed great emphasis on a nature-friendly layout. The north-south-oriented parts of the site will be ecologically integrated with their surroundings. In the south-eastern corner, a new natural area is being developed, connecting to the De Hooibroeken nature reserve. Planting will take place in autumn 2025, after construction activities have ended, to avoid damage to young plants. This will allow the vegetation to establish and flourish in the coming years. The water levels within the project area have also been adjusted to match those of the adjacent nature reserve, enabling local flora and fauna to thrive.
Local ownership, locally supported
What makes Hooibroeken Solar Park unique is the strong local support. Thanks to the collaboration with Energiek Heusden, 50% of the solar park is owned by residents from the region.
In early 2024, they enthusiastically subscribed for investment certificates: 3,800 certificates were available, but applications exceeded 6,500 – a clear sign of strong engagement and trust.
Working together for a sustainable future
With Hooibroeken Solar Park, we are not only supplying clean energy but also enhancing local biodiversity.
The local community shares in the profits through the Oudheusden Community Fund and the Heusden Sustainability Fund.
This project demonstrates what can be achieved when government, citizens, and market players join forces for a greener future.
