An event fostering collaboration between two major European energy transition projects.
On 15 September, the historic Prinsenzaal in Alkmaar will be the venue for a special event uniting two major European initiatives dedicated to energy transition: POCITYF and REFORMERS. This event offers a unique opportunity to share experiences from Alkmaar, representing both the Lighthouse City of POCITYF and the Flagship Valley of REFORMERS. The immersive programme is designed to strengthen synergies, inspire new urban visions, and explore the technological innovations implemented in the region.
A Day of vision and solutions
Following the opening remarks and an interactive activity to encourage networking, the morning session will feature presentations from Alkmaar: the key site for both project’s studies, will take centre stage. Discussions will cover advanced energy solutions, citizen engagement, urban governance models, and integrated digital systems.
The Bold City Vision workshop will invite participants to co-develop future scenarios for resilient, sustainable, and inclusive cities, building on the strategic frameworks and long-term visions developed within both projects. The session will encourage dialogue on replicable governance models, innovation pathways, and citizen-centred approaches already in practice.
A tour at the heart of energy transition
In the afternoon, the programme will move outdoors with a series of thematic guided tours, offering firsthand insights into local interventions (see images below):
De Meent and Woonwaard Highrise – An opportunity to explore the energy assets of the sports complex and the solar installations on high-density residential buildings.
InVesta and HVC – An in-depth look at the role of Energy Hubs, featuring visits to HVC’s bio-energy plant and the InVesta centre of expertise.
Digital Twin / Junior IoT – A tour focusing on digital applications for intelligent energy management.
The day will conclude with an informal dinner, aimed at strengthening connections among partners, stakeholders, and institutional representatives.
Copyright – REFORMERS 2025
Alkmaar’s Valley: A Living Lab across industrial, residential, and rural areas
Located in the northern Netherlands, Alkmaar’s Flagship Valley centres around a business and industrial park, surrounded by residential neighbourhoods and rural landscapes. It serves as a demonstration area within the REFORMERS project, where integrated solutions in energy efficiency, renewable energy use, and citizen participation are being tested. This diverse setting provides an ideal environment for developing replicable models of energy communities and low-emission technologies.