Thermal energy storage (TES)
Besides solar energy, UU is betting on thermal energy storage (TES), a sustainable alternative for heating and cooling buildings. The use of TES will form the basis of Utrecht University's sustainable energy supply in the future. This system uses seasonal storage, storing cold energy in winter for use in summer and heat energy in summer for use in winter.
Currently, the University has three TES distribution networks in operation with a total of 12 building connections, both own and third-party buildings. With its TES-max policy, UU's ambition is to expand these systems and networks. The ultimate goal is for all buildings, owned or leased by UU at the Science Park, to be suitable for connection. In this way, the buildings will be supplied with sustainable heating and cooling energy leading to a reduction in the CO2 footprint.
Building a collective aquifer thermal energy storage system
At the Utrecht Science Park, five institutions are joining forces to develop a collective aquifer thermal energy storage system (ATES). With this initiative, they are taking an important step toward a future-proof, largely fossil-free energy system. A thermal source for heating and cooling is currently being installed to connect the first buildings. By 2030, several more buildings are expected to be linked to this shared infrastructure. Read more about this unique collaboration.