SPIE pioneers smart energy integration at the Glanerbrook sports park in the Netherlands

Geleen, Netherlands, 27 June 2025- SPIE, the independent European leader in multi-technical services in the areas of energy and communications, has completed a sophisticated and integrated energy system that will bring the Glanerbrook sports park in Geleen, Netherlands, one step closer to becoming an energy-neutral^[1] sports facility. A significant milestone was symbolically celebrated on 25 June with the activation of over 4,000 solar panels. SPIE has delivered an integrated system for energy generation, storage and management that is unique in the Netherlands.

The renovated sports complex, which includes two sports halls, a fitness centre, a competition pool, a leisure pool, a cycling track, an ice rink, as well as an outdoor ice-skating area, will be powered by an ingeniously integrated array of technology:

• Approximately 5,200 solar panels (530 kWp) and 17 inverters,
• Two stationary batteries (750 kW / 2.1 MWh),
• An advanced energy management system (EMS),
• Heat recovery from ammonia compressors,
• Thermal buffering via the building management system (BMS),
• 50 electric vehicle charging points (to be completed by the end of 2025)

SPIE played a key role in developing and integrating the entire system architecture and was responsible for the design, technical coordination and interconnection of all energy components. In close collaboration with Fudura, a solid foundation was laid for this sustainable energy system.

“The strength of this project lies in integration: the generation, storage, and reuse of energy are all coordinated in real time using smart software that takes factors such as weather forecasts and peak usage into account,” says Jo Geuskens, project manager at SPIE.

Smarter energy use

One of the project’s standout features is the use of residual heat. The compressors used to produce ice also generate heat, which is repurposed to warm the rink’s floors. This prevents permanent freezing, which could result in structural damage. The heat is also used to warm the swimming pools and showers.

In the next phase, any excess solar energy generated during the summer months will also be utilised. The building management system ensures that temperatures inside and outside the pool are always comfortable. Excess energy is used for this purpose, thereby saving energy at night. This approach is one-of-a-kind in the Netherlands.

“Traditionally, sports complexes are major energy consumers—especially those with ice rinks and swimming pools. This project proves that things can be done differently. Thanks to the integration of smart technology and collaboration with Fudura and the Municipality of Sittard-Geleen, this is a true example of how sustainability and technology can go hand in hand,” Geuskens explains.

The activation on 25 June was a symbolic moment: from that day onwards, the sports park will be able to balance its own energy use. The system is expected to be fully operational by 2026, positioning Glanerbrook as a national frontrunner in sustainable energy for sports facilities.

_{[1] Excluding construction-related emissions}