Danish and Dutch experts met in the Netherlands for a Deep Dive workshop under the Confidence II project. Over two intensive days, participants worked across technical, financial, governance, and stakeholder-related topics to strengthen the development of viable heat networks in the Dutch context.
The first Deep Dive workshop in the Confidence II project brought together a highly engaged group of Danish and Dutch participants in the Netherlands. In addition to the core project partners, this edition also included representatives from housing associations, national organisations, municipalities, the local DSO, and local initiators – a valuable expansion that reflects the growing need for cross-sector collaboration in heat network development.
The workshop programme combined strategic discussions with practical deep dives. Key themes included:
- How to align technical solutions with economics, finance, and governance
- Business case and governance models for small-scale district heating projects
- Integration perspectives for e-boilers and heat pumps in the Dutch setting
- Tariff structures and regulatory considerations for smaller heat networks
- Stakeholder and end-user engagement
- Financing strategies for regional energy transition initiatives
- Practical translation of Danish district heating experience into a Dutch context, with a strong focus on Bolsward.
A recurring discussion throughout the workshop was how technical optimisation can improve project viability – and how this must go hand in hand with governance choices, local ownership models, and stakeholder alignment. In particular, the participants explored how lessons from Denmark can be adapted to Dutch local realities rather than copied directly.
The programme also included parallel sessions and open discussion formats, creating space for both strategic reflection and practical next steps.
The strong energy and openness in the room confirmed the value of the Deep Dive format: each session builds shared understanding and practical expertise that can help increase confidence in heat networks – both locally and nationally in the Netherlands.
DBDH is pleased to contribute to this Danish-Dutch knowledge exchange through Confidence II, where collaboration across municipalities, industry, and local actors is essential to accelerate the heat transition.
