Dutch Van Gelder contributes to energy transition - with a grip on safety

How Van Gelder and Kooi secure the grid of tomorrow

In the Netherlands, Van Gelder Cable, Pipe and Fitting works with Dutch grid operator Liander to create a future-proof infrastructure to meet the fast-growing demand for power. To secure their project sites, Van Gelder works closely with Kooi. ‘We are working with a party that understands our sector. That makes all the difference,’ says Peter Paul Frans, Project Manager at Van Gelder.

More and more European countries are succeeding in making great strides to meet the 2030 energy and climate targets. Last year, more than half of the EU's electricity was already generated from renewable sources. The European energy transition requires a large-scale adaptation of the electricity grid. Peter Paul explains:

‘In the coming years, as many as 3,000 kilometers of cables will be laid within the Dutch NuLelie program and more than 400 transformer stations will be renewed or added. And this expansion will make it possible to transport renewable energy reliably, even at peak times.'

Smart execution with safety first

The work is technically challenging and is often carried out along busy (public) roads. Traditional open excavation is usually chosen, but in difficult places - under roads or ditches, for example - directional drilling is used. This cleverly avoids obstacles and keeps the area accessible. But this kind of work involves more than just technology. The field is dynamic and risky. Not only because of the nature of the work, but also because of external factors such as theft and vandalism. ‘If the crane is not running due to theft, for example, the whole project comes to a standstill,’ says Peter Paul.

‘Theft of driving plates, materials or equipment means delays, higher costs and a lot of frustration.’

Kooi as partner in safety

To mitigate those risks, it has now been working with Kooi for 2.5 years. With mobile camera surveillance, Van Gelder ensures effective security, even at remote locations. It prevents incidents such as theft of steel driving plates - a problem that has caused considerable financial damage in the past. Don’t forget that one steel plate can coast about 600 euros. ‘The cameras really do their job,’ says Mark van Dijk, contractor at Van Gelder. ‘We see fewer incidents now, and should something happen, we have good images and clear reports. In short, in terms of security, Kooi relieves us completely.’ 

What does Van Gelder appreciate in Kooi? The quick delivery, the flexibility in moving with the planning and the course of the project, and especially having a fixed contact person. ‘You build a bond, and that just works nicely,’ says Peter Paul. ‘Kooi always looks for a suitable solution. That gives confidence.’

Building a safe and sustainable future together

The partnership with Kooi allows Van Gelder to focus on this project in Friesland: building a robust energy infrastructure for Friesland and the surrounding area. With this approach, Van Gelder focuses on safety, continuity and efficiency - essential for realizing a future-proof energy infrastructure. With help from reliable partners like Kooi, the site will remain safe, well-monitored and productive.


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Direct contact with our expert: 
Jelle van Tol | International Sales Manager
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