A row house from 1978 has been transformed in just four months into a model of sustainability, featuring a heat pump, solar panels, triple glazing, and an innovative ventilation system.
The sustainability initiative is part of the municipal project Groeneveld Goes Green, aiming to make all homes in the neighborhood energy-efficient by 2030. "We want to demonstrate that sustainability is not only for new constructions or large villas,” said Alderman for Climate and Energy, Sandra Vos. “This is an ordinary family home, but with an extraordinary impact on energy consumption and living comfort.”
Residents Getting Involved
Resident Jasper van Dijk (42), who voluntarily participated in the project, is excited about the results.
“Our energy bill is now zero euros, and the comfort has increased tremendously. The house feels warm in the winter without drafts, and in the summer, it stays pleasantly cool.”
The house is equipped with 18 solar panels, an air-water heat pump, floor insulation, smart thermostats, and a rainwater collection system for toilet flushing and garden irrigation. The roof and facades have also been additionally insulated. The total investment was €45,000, of which €25,000 was subsidized by the municipality and national programs.
New Registrations
The municipality of Groeneveld urges other municipalities to start similar projects. “With the right guidance, subsidies, and involvement of residents, this is scalable and affordable,” said Alderman Vos.
More information on the financing of energy-saving measures can be found at: