YOUNG TALENT AND PUFF-PRIME

Industrial park Kickersbloem is familiar territory for Van den Pol Elektrotechniek. “We were also involved in the two previously completed warehouses at Rotterdam Logistics Park,” says project manager John Gielen. “Those are very similar to the new distribution centers. In the preparations, data from the earlier set-up came in handy.” The evaluation also provided important input. “After every project, we sit down as permanent construction partners and discuss what can be done better, smarter or faster next time. Not only in preparation and execution, but also when it comes to communication.”

Long distances

At the two new DCs, Van den Pol is responsible for the distribution boxes, lighting and security installation. “They are long distances. That's why we apply busbar trunking.” A first is the use of Plastic Optical Fiber (POF) to extend the data installation, camera provision or wifi, instead of the usual UTP cabling. “This eliminates the need for separate cables. Connections can easily be made later at any desired location. Tenants purchase these facilities through Fiber Unlimited, client for the POF cabling.”

Electric aerial platforms

With BREEAM Excellent, the sustainability level is high. “Emissions during construction also play a role in this. We do everything we can to reduce these as much as possible, for example by using only electric aerial platforms.”

Crucial interplay

Due to grid congestion, no power connection is available. “To still be able to use the DCs, an interplay of the PV system and a battery pack is needed. The energy management system provides the coordination between all components.”

Bypassing grid congestion

Van den Pol is also increasingly realizing such solutions. “For example, for Topgeschenken in Aalsmeer. With a hybrid energy square, this new building largely provides for its own energy supply. And at Utrecht Central Plaza, the use of solar panels, batteries and generators makes redevelopment and expansion of an existing building possible. Despite grid congestion, such developments can still go ahead.”

Inflow of talent

At Rotterdam Logistics Park, Van den Pol deploys a combination of experienced mechanics and young talent. “For almost twenty years, our company school has provided a constant influx of well-trained technicians. This Van den Pol Academy provides an important influx in today's labor market.”