Since December 2021, LEIS (Local Energy Initiatives Stimulation) has played a central role in supporting the area process in Dalfserveld-West. This area in the municipality of Dalfsen has been designated by the province and municipality as a search area for generating sustainable energy, an important step in the regional energy transition. Leis is studying the feasibility of generating and storing biogas, wind energy, solar energy and hydrogen. It also advises residents on 100% local ownership and how this can be organised. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the transition to a sustainable and future-proof energy supply for the area. We are now in the final stages of this study, where all facets have been extensively tested.

Background and objectives of the feasibility study

The study in Dalfserveld-West was designed to get a clear picture of the possibilities and limitations of different energy solutions within the region. The specific objectives are:

• Determining the technical and economic feasibility of biogas, wind, solar and hydrogen.
• Mapping the environmental and spatial impacts of each solution.
• Preparing a comprehensive report compiling the results of each sub-project.

Subprojects: Energy options for Dalfserveld-West

The feasibility study consists of four main subprojects, each focusing on different forms of renewable energy generation.

Biogas
The subproject on biogas focuses on exploring the possibilities of fermenting organic waste, such as manure and agricultural residues, and converting it into biogas. This biogas can then be used as fuel for electricity generation or heat supply, or further upgraded to green gas for transport or households. The feasibility test looks not only at the technical feasibility, but also at the economic value for the local agricultural sector and the potential for CO₂ reduction.

Wind energy
For wind power generation, Dalfserveld-West has been examined for the available space for wind turbines through a barrier study. The study identified a potential area for wind turbine erection but also aspects such as economic feasibility and social impact

Solar
This sub-project investigated how much space is available in Dalfserveld-West for a small solar park within the province's frameworks and what possibilities there are for using roofs of agricultural and industrial properties for solar panels. The feasibility test also looked at possible yields, financial feasibility, and the balance between agricultural land and energy generation. Here, support among local residents and landowners plays an important role.

Hydrogen

Finally, LEIS is exploring the possibility of producing and storing hydrogen as an energy solution in Dalfserveld-West. Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis, using electricity from wind or solar power to convert water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen can then be stored and used as fuel or as a buffer to cope with fluctuations in energy demand. The study focuses on the feasibility and future potential role of hydrogen in the local energy mix.

Report
Now that the study is in its final stages, the results of each sub-project are compiled in a comprehensive report. This report provides an overview of the findings and gives concrete recommendations for the future of sustainable energy generation in Dalfserveld-West. In doing so, the advantages and possible limitations of each type of energy solution are clearly explained. The report will be presented to the Dalfsen municipality and serves as a basis for further decisions on the development of sustainable energy in the area.