On November 16, 2024, we celebrated something special together with EigenWijkse Energie Coöperatie (EWEC) and the Municipality of Wijk bij Duurstede: the opening of Zonnepark Wijkerbroek.
Wijk bij Duurstede; Sunvest; November 16, 2024; Photo credits: Willemijn van Harskamp
A celebration to be proud of
This wasn’t just any celebration; it was a moment to reflect on the steps we’re taking together toward a sustainable future. The solar park has a capacity of 18 MWp, generating enough electricity to power approximately 7,000 households. Construction began in the fall of 2023, and the solar park, featuring 27,500 panels, has been operational since October 2024. This marks a milestone for the region!
Learning together about the power of solar energy
During guided tours led by Rob Willems, Martine van der Woude from EigenWijkse Energie Coöperatie (EWEC), and Kees Heijmerink from Sunvest, visitors got a firsthand look at how the solar park operates. From the park’s technical hub to the development stories behind the panels, everyone gained unique insights behind the scenes. The highlight? The ceremonial planting of the first three trees by alderman Jeroen Brouwer, climate mayor Vincent Heimel, Martine van der Woude of EWEC, and Rene Hanssen and Jeroen Schmaal from Sunvest—a symbolic beginning to the landscape integration that will take shape in the coming months.
Get involved, pass it on
The solar park isn’t just a source of green energy; it’s also a hub for local engagement. Residents of Wijk bij Duurstede had the opportunity to become co-owners through EWEC. Shares could even be gifted to children and grandchildren. During the opening, several parents who had invested on behalf of their children attended. “This panel, this piece of the future, is for you,” they said. As Adrie Gouweleeuw and Martine van der Woude (EWEC) put it: “This is how we make sustainability tangible for the next generation.”
Proud of our collaboration
Alderman Jeroen Brouwer emphasized the importance of sustainable initiatives and the municipality’s pride: “Together, we demonstrate that sustainability isn’t just necessary but also a beautiful opportunity for new collaborations. By signing the Wijk Environmental Fund during the festivities, we have now ensured that the proceeds will flow back into the Wijk community.”
Jeroen Schmaal, business developer at Sunvest, added: “This solar park is the result of close collaboration between Sunvest, EWEC, and the municipality. With this solar park, we are not only providing nature-friendly solar energy, but in the coming months, we will also further work on landscape integration, with attention to biodiversity through the planting of hedgerows, willows, and trees.”
Your Park, Your Future
Zonnepark Wijkerbroek demonstrates that we can make a difference together. It’s a place where energy and nature come together, and where everyone, young and old, can contribute. Together, we are building a future that is greener and more sustainable—not just for ourselves, but also for the generations to come.
