Heldair 2: green energy boost for Fastned
The Heldair 2 solar farm developed by Ecorus is located next to Maritime Airport De Kooy and Den Helder Airport. This region has the most sunshine hours in the Netherlands. With a capacity of over 25 MWp, the solar park will provide around 22 GWh of solar energy annually, which is over a quarter of Fastned's total consumption in the Netherlands in 2023. This CPPA makes a significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions.
Whereas the eight-year agreement signed in February 2024 was for a capacity of 16.2 MWp, the second agreement has a term of 15 years.
Mike Dusseldorp, Head of PPA and Energy Markets at Ecorus, said, "We are very proud of the confidence from Fastned that after the successful first CPPA, we can not only continue but also strengthen the cooperation." The 15-year agreement is seen as a win-win by both parties. Fastned gets long-term price certainty on the purchased power and Ecorus gets better financing opportunities for the realisation and financing of Heldair 2.''
Roland van der Put, Energy Sourcing Manager at Fastned, says: "With this second CPPA, we can offer our customers long-term electricity from renewable sources at a stable price. This provides more security for our customers and at the same time accelerates the energy transition. With this kind of contract, we enable project developers like Ecorus to finance and realise their projects, and that provides the Netherlands and our customers with more solar energy."
From development to green electricity in 2025
The development, investment and construction of Heldair II are in the hands of Ecorus. A process that includes applying for SDE subsidy, arranging grid connection, permits and working out the design. Ecorus expects to start construction in the fourth quarter of 2024. The first solar power is expected in early 2025.
Role of Scholt Energy
As with the first CPPA, the solar energy generated will be supplied to Fastned by their energy supplier Scholt Energy. "With this second CPPA, we have once again successfully reached an agreement with Fastned and Ecorus. Together with Fastned, we continue to explore new opportunities for further sustainability to achieve the sustainability goals. Additionally, we are pleased to have further expanded our collaboration with Ecorus," emphasizes Michiel van der Steen, Senior Energy Transition Specialist at Scholt Energy.
Scholt Energy acts as the link between producer and consumer, handling the entire financial and administrative settlement of the CPPA. In various market roles, Scholt Energy utilizes the flexibility of the solar park by deploying it in the energy and balancing markets. This provides benefits for consumers, producers, and network operators.
About Fastned, Ecorus & Scholt Energy
Fastned
Fastned is on a mission to accelerate the transition to electric mobility. Since 2012, we’ve been at the forefront of European charging infrastructure development, building and operating a rapidly growing network of iconic fast charging stations. Our yellow, nature inspired stations create a welcoming environment for drivers during the 10-15 minutes it takes to charge up to 300 km of range. By offering Europe’s most reliable, convenient and joyful charging experience, we aim to inspire millions to drive on solar and wind energy so that together we can curb climate change. Fastned is listed at Euronext Amsterdam (AMS: FAST).
About Ecorus
Ecorus uses solar energy to accelerate the business energy transition and supports the journey to net zero. Since its founding in 2010, the company combines in-depth technical knowledge with a customer-focused approach to provide tailor-made solutions that contribute to a cleaner and greener future. From feasibility studies and project development to full implementation and maintenance of solar energy systems, Ecorus ensures that each installation performs optimally and delivers maximum value.
About Scholt Energy
Scholt Energy has been operating as an energy supplier in the business market since 2005. The company supplies electricity and gas to companies through a smart purchasing concept and supports companies in applying sustainable solutions such as sustainable energy purchasing, energy storage, curtailment and charge management. Scholt Energy has grown into a major player in the international market with locations in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Austria. Together with more than 320 employees, Scholt Energy strives for climate-neutral energy for all companies. The company currently facilitates thirteen different CPPA projects in the Netherlands. This links 58 different customers directly to thirteen different wind and solar farms.