Geothermal energy 

This is a technology that involves pumping up naturally occurring hot water from below ground to heat greenhouses. The well lies at a depth of 3 km and the water comes out of the ground at 85 degrees Celsius. This is used to heat the greenhouse. The cooled water flows back into the same layer of the earth’s crust at 35 degrees, where it is able reheat. 

Geothermal energy is a sustainable way to heat greenhouses. By using it, we have greatly reduced our carbon emissions. Our business alone has cut its fossil fuel consumption by 70%, equivalent to the energy consumption of 1,500 households! Representing a huge step forward in sustainable cultivation, which we are really proud of! Martien Zuidgeest is closely involved in the project on behalf of Frestia, and we collaborate intensively with other growers. The well has been operational since 2017 and has sufficient capacity to supply heat to several businesses. We expect it to operate for at least 15 years.  

Co-owner and initiator of geothermal project 

We are also exploring the possibility of geothermal energy for Frestia’s ‘Oranjeveld’ site, along with other growers and investors. Preparations have been underway for quite some time. The most important and most difficult task is analysing the composition of the substrate. This determines the amount of heat that can be harvested and hence the feasibility of the project. The drilling work in Maasdijk is expected to start in 2022 and we will be able to use geothermal heat for the 'Oranjeveld' site from 2023 onwards.