Innovation

Nuon participation in CityCargo

In 2007 Nuon took a 15% interest in CityCargo Amsterdam, involving an investment of EUR 1.6 million. In the future this can be expanded to an interest of 30% on the basis of the results achieved in 2008. Nuon is CityCargo’s exclusive supplier of renewable energy and energy-saving and -efficiency advice. The first trams are expected to start running in late 2008 or early 2009.

The aim of CityCargo Amsterdam is to develop and operate a CO2 neutral distribution system. The system consists of freight trams, which transport goods to and from the city, and electrically-powered delivery vehicles called e-cars which take care of the distribution in the city centre. The trams carry the supplies from cross docks - distribution centres situated on the periphery of the city - where traditional trucks can deliver goods day and night. CityCargo expects to cut the number of trucks entering Amsterdam city centre from 5,000 to 2,500 a day, thus making a substantial contribution towards the reduction of traffic movements, noise nuisance and harmful emissions. The concept also helps to overcome the supply bottlenecks arising from the fact that trucks are only allowed to enter the city centre during restricted times.

In taking an interest in CityCargo Nuon wants to encourage the development of new sustainable mobility concepts using electricity as fuel. Nuon expects electrified traffic flows to play an increasing role in the drive to create a more sustainable environment, notably in urban areas. There is great potential for environmental gains in this field, particularly if the electricity is generated from renewable sources, as is the case with CityCargo.

Nuon Energy Transition Fund

In 2007 Nuon commenced its preparations for setting up an Energy Transition Fund. This is an investment fund for energy-related technologies which are under development. The focus of this fund is on projects that support the transition from fossil fuels to alternative energy sources and more efficient energy consumption. The investment fund has started with an initial capital of EUR 40 million. Through the Energy Transition Fund we are taking the lead in stimulating technologies that reduce and/or avoid CO2 emissions in the production of energy. 

Sometimes promising energy-related technologies and products don’t get beyond the drawing board. Resources from the fund can be used to invest in the further development of such products and technologies. Once these have been fully developed, the fund can sell them to third parties or to Nuon for use in the business or for sale to customers.

Nuon’s participation in the Energy Transition Programme

Nuon participates in the Energy Transition Programme, an interdepartmental programme of the government. Within this programme, dedicated platforms have been set up for each specific field of energy transition so that organisations can work together to find solutions. Nuon participates in the New Gas Platform and the Renewable Electricity Platform. 

Innovation within Nuon

In 2007 Nuon worked on innovative solutions for sustainable energy development in several areas. These activities are described in this report in the sections referred to below:

• Financial strategies for energy saving
  (included in Consumer Energy Saving)
• Plastic Pipelines for heating networks
  (included in Production of Heating and Cooling)
• CO2 capture
  (included in Investments)
• Nuon Magnum gasification power station
  (included in Investments)
• Flexible solar cells
  (included in Energy Production)