A lot of activity at EnergyVille, as this month the construction work began on a thermal network of the so-called fifth generation at Thor Park in Genk. This network will allow the various buildings within the Thor Science Park – both existing and future buildings – to be sustainably heated and cooled, based on shallow geothermal energy. It is one of the first networks of its kind in Belgium and is built in a modular way, allowing for quick expansion and scaling. In short, a crucial cornerstone in EnergyVille’s (and its partners KU Leuven, VITO, imec, and UHasselt) research into a more sustainable energy supply.
In this first phase of the construction works, the existing buildings (Thor Central, IncubaThor, EnergyVille 1 and 2, the THOREAQ research buildings) and the buildings yet to be constructed (a total of 8 plots) will be connected to the network. The aim is to sustainably heat and cool the buildings using shallow geothermal energy and maximise the exchange of residual heat and cold between them. For instance, the residual heat from one building can be used to meet the energy demand of another building. Underground storage, at a depth of 65 meters or more, is also planned using so-called ‘aquifers’.
Combined forces
The thermal network – designed by VITO/EnergyVille and for which the works have now officially started – represents a promising new piece in the development of the Open Thor Living Lab at Thor Park. It has the support of many partners. The project stems from a call for green heat by the Flemish Energy and Climate Agency. The construction itself will be carried out by Fluvius, which has been involved in the project from the start. The operation of the network will be managed by IFTECH, via the recently established entity ‘Thetys CollecThor NV.’ The network is expected to be operational by February 2025.