This project aims to build wind farms in and around existing infrastructure. The joint venture agreement is the first step in realising this innovative concept, in which wind turbines will be constructed over railway tracks on masts designed especially for this project. The project means multiple use can be made of the space available.
Evelop MD Pieter Tavenier said: “We are proud to be embarking on this unique project and are convinced that many more additional locations for wind energy can be developed with similar innovative projects.”
ProRail Railway Development director Kees-Jan Dosker said: “We are excited about this idea and view this project as a significant opportunity to contribute to an increasingly sustainable railway sector. During the pilot, we will focus particularly on the aspects safety and railway accessibility.”
The project is expected to start in 2011 with construction of the pilot project. The expectation is that electricity will first be generated in 2012. In consultation with municipal and provincial authorities and other stakeholders, an assessment will be conducted to determine how many Railwind turbines can be installed. In addition to the spatial planning considerations, safety will also be thoroughly assessed, as part of which Kema will advise the project management.
The development, construction and operation of the first Railwind project will be thoroughly evaluated. Other potential railway lines to be considered for this sustainable project will in part be determined on the basis of the evaluation results.
The pilot project is currently awaiting the decision regarding an innovation subsidy from Operational Programme ‘South Netherlands’ (OP Zuid), part of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Earthwitness 