Helix program
Transformation of the North Holland electricity grid
Major changes for a future-proof electricity grid
North Holland is undergoing major changes in its energy infrastructure as a result of sustainability efforts and increased demand for electricity. A.Hak and Liander play a crucial role in realizing a future-proof electricity grid.
In this interview, Leon Benders, Helix program manager at Liander, and Remco van Beest, Helix program manager at A.Hak, share their insights on the ambitious Helix program and the transformation of the electricity grid in North Holland.
Future growth
The Helix program focuses on strengthening and expanding the medium-voltage network in North Holland. This includes the construction of 2,000 kilometers of cable and the construction of 360 electricity houses. The program includes various sub-areas, with A.Hak responsible for the Kop van Noord-Holland and West Friesland.
Remco van Beest emphasizes the unique nature of the framework contract for this program. There is a focus on long-term cooperation up to 12 years, and there is also a volume guarantee.
“This contract enables A.Hak to make long-term investments, an important element for the success of the program. But also to ensure a large amount of work that we can properly schedule over time with as much continuity and ‘flow’ as possible.”
Leon Benders adds:
“Sustainability and limiting nuisance for both employees and residents are also important aspects. A.Hak has set sustainability goals, including limiting emissions and increasing the deployability of electric equipment. By using electric equipment, for example, we also immediately have less noise pollution. So that’s a win-win.”
Innovative construction team structure
A striking aspect of the Helix program is the innovative construction team structure. Leon explains that the construction team shares responsibilities and tries to speed up the execution. Remco emphasizes: “This approach ensures a more reliable and feasible design, saving valuable time and money. This is mainly because you are sitting around the table with each other from a very early stage. This allows the people who ultimately have to do the work to have a say right away, and you have less discussion afterwards, for example. That’s how we move forward. This does not alter the fact that this collaboration is still relatively new and therefore also exciting.”
People are crucial
“The collaboration with Mug Engineering has also been running since the tender phase. Here we work together and Liander, Mug, and A.Hak have laid a strong foundation for smooth execution.” Remco and Leon emphasize that human factors are crucial to the success of the program. They therefore invest heavily in team development, realizing that 80% of the success is determined by human interactions.
With 26 projects in the pipeline and a start outside planned in January 2024, A.Hak and Liander are determined to prepare North Holland for a sustainable future. The Helix program promises not only technological progress but also an example of effective collaboration and sustainability in the energy transition.
