A Dutch first: smart CO₂ liquefaction integrated into the existing Houtrust treatment plant
For designer and constructor Erik Peezenkamp, this was one of those projects where technology, customisation and innovation came together perfectly. “These kinds of special projects are the most interesting to me. Everything is customer-specific and you need to find solutions in places where it almost does not fit.”
The Hoogheemraadschap van Delfland wanted to further improve the sustainability of AWZI Houtrust. In addition to supplying green gas to the public gas grid, the project reduced CO₂ emissions by around 50 percent. The liquefied CO₂ is now supplied to greenhouse horticulture in the Westland region, making Delfland the first Dutch water authority to take this step.
Working within an existing environment
The challenge was not only the technology itself, but mainly integrating the installation into an existing and fully operational site. The upgrading system had to be built inside an existing building, while the CO₂ liquefaction unit had to be placed separately because of explosion safety requirements.
“At first, we were assigned several small spaces where the installation had to fit. Technically, that was not logical and would have been very difficult to execute.” Together with the team, HoSt Group searched for a better solution and was eventually assigned a different building that proved far more suitable. “That gave us much more space to set everything up properly and safely.”
3D scans and precision work
To make everything fit exactly, the entire building was scanned in 3D. This allowed the team to digitally walk through the building from the office and accurately map every pipe, connection and available space.
“We could literally walk through the building on the computer and measure exactly how everything needed to fit.”
Existing pipework also had to be adjusted and intelligently connected to the customer’s existing processes. In addition, heat recovery and digestion optimisation were included in the project, making the entire installation even more efficient.
From design to visible impact
Erik spent around six months working intensively on the project, from the first layout to the full technical design. That complete process is exactly what makes these projects special.
“You start with an empty space and a technical challenge. In the end, there is a fully operational installation that adds real value for the customer.”
When he later returned to the site and saw everything running, it became a proud moment. “That is when the project really comes to life. That is something to be proud of.”