Network manager Enexis is going to build a distribution center in Hoogeveen of 54,000 square meters in size. An area that can be compared with more than seven football fields or 27 large supermarkets. But what is all that space actually needed?
It is in the transport of large materials, among other things. Think of meter -long gas tubes or four tons cable reels. “To transport something like that, you need enough space on your terrain for freight traffic,” explains Michel Wauters of Enexis.
The industrial hall itself is 14,000 square meters in size, the rest consists of an outside area. “The distribution hall is therefore a lot smaller than what’s around it,” he continues. And yet all the extra space is desperately needed.
The network operator already has a location in Hoogeveen along the current, but has grown out of her joints. Two years ago the decision was therefore made to go for a new location on the Riegmeer business park.
“It can actually be compared to buying a house. If you still expect children in the future, you will focus on a larger home. We expect to have to transport even more products in the future, so we will use larger,” says Wauters.
That all has to do with the work that is becoming increasingly extensive and the growth of the company, says Enexis. The need to have parts available for technicians and contractors continues to increase.
“And it can really be about everything,” Wauters continues. “From electricity cables to fuses and from screws to transformers. With a large distribution center you can install enough stock to meet that question.”
In terms of location, the Riegmeer business park is the right place, says the company. Enexis is active in the north of the Netherlands, among other things, and with that they are sitting close to the fire. The location of Riegmeer along the A28 and the A37 is also favorable.
An additional advantage has to do with staff: you can better maintain employees in the region, the network operator thinks. “We desperately need them in the future, so you don’t want to lose them,” Wauters is. A different location has been thought about, but that idea was shot.
Next year the network operator wants to further elaborate the plans. On the Stegge Twello is attracted as a builder. Ultimately, the new building must open in 2027. The location on the current is rented, Enexis will eventually leave there.