Tailored energy infrastructure for mega distribution center

At Logistics Park Moerdijk, DSV is building a distribution center of more than 240,000 square meters. For the energy supply, the company engaged Voltens, a total supplier and installer of transformer substations. Not a standard job, with eight transformer stations, four kilometers of medium-voltage cables and close coordination with various construction partners.

Voltens was involved in the construction team even before the official award. According to specialist Bas Britstra, this was essential: "We were able to think along about the best approach from the beginning. Not only technically, but also in terms of planning and sustainability. This resulted in a solution that perfectly meets the needs of DSV and the future."

The project had a high degree of complexity. Operational manager Lisa de Wit: "We work here with many parties at the same time. In that kind of project it is important that all steps are well coordinated. Thanks to our experience in large-scale utility projects, we were able to move along smoothly, even when the design gradually changed."

Made in house

The transformer substations are built at Voltens' production facility in Ouderkerk aan den IJssel. This makes adjustments during the process easier, says Britstra: "Because we produce everything ourselves, we have a grip on both quality and planning. In this project that was important, because the design changed several times along the way. And yet we met all the delivery dates."

Prepared for tomorrow

The design takes into account the expected growth in energy demand. Consider a charging infrastructure for electric transport or expansion of storage capacity. The huge roof area - good for hefty solar energy generation - also placed demands on the system. "Supplying back to the grid is not always possible," says Britstra. "So we helped think of a smart distribution of the energy, so that the grid is burdened as little as possible and DSV gets maximum benefit from its own generation."

From Dutch soil

Not only the technical choices show vision. Voltens also keeps the lines short operationally. De Wit: "We work with Dutch suppliers as much as possible. This reduces the environmental impact and keeps the chain transparent. It suits how we approach projects: down-to-earth, clear and focused on quality."

Even after commissioning, Voltens remains involved in the project. Britstra: "We take care of the installation responsibility for high voltage and the management and maintenance. Even after completion we remain available as a point of contact. This means that DSV can continue to count on our fast service and on a partner who knows the system inside out. This way we keep moving with the ambitions in the field - now and in the future."