Together, we are taking steps toward the Leudal Energy Community

On March 17, the municipality of Leudal, together with the energy cooperatives Leudal Energie and Zuidenwind, the Midden-Limburg Development Agency, the Limburg Agricultural and Horticultural Association, and grid operator Enexis, signed the partnership agreement for the Leudal Energy Community. 

This marks an important step toward a local and future-proof energy system for residents and businesses. Alderman Graef signed the agreement on behalf of the municipal executive.

The 2022–2026 coalition agreement stipulates that the municipality will explore ways to take greater control of local energy supply. The energy community is a concrete implementation of this. The goal is clear: reliable and affordable renewable energy for residents and businesses in Leudal—energy that is generated locally as much as possible and used locally. 

Proceeds to the community

Alderman Michel Graef: 

Through this partnership, we are taking an important step toward greater local control over our energy. We are doing this together with our partners and our residents. In this way, we ensure that renewable energy remains affordable and that the proceeds benefit our own community.

What is an energy community?

An energy community is a partnership between residents, local organizations, and, where appropriate, the municipality. Together, they generate renewable energy, for example through solar, wind, or green gas. That energy can then be shared locally. This is done on a non-profit basis. The price is based on cost and is fair and transparent for members. Since January 1, 2026, the new Energy Act has also provided the legal framework for sharing energy locally with one another. 

Experience in Ell and Heibloem

Pilot projects have been underway in the villages of Ell and Heibloem since April 2025. Residents there are actively involved in project groups, alongside energy cooperatives such as Leudal Energie and Zuidenwind. The goal is to use locally generated energy locally and to work toward creating future-proof, natural gas-free villages. In January 2026, these projects were also designated as model projects by the province of Limburg. 

Building the future together

By signing the partnership agreement, the parties involved are committing to continue building the Leudal Energy Community together. At a later stage, residents and businesses will also be invited to join. The formal establishment of the Leudal Energy Community is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. Until then, work on specific projects will continue in the pilot villages.