A First Step Toward Sustainability for Businesses in Voorne aan Zee

Practical help without complicated reports

Stefan Romijn of the Stimular Foundation is a sustainability coach for the municipality. He explains:
“Many business owners have questions about solar panels, feed-in penalties, and the end of the net metering scheme. By matching the number of solar panels to their consumption, they feed back almost nothing. This way, they often recoup their investment within a few years. I don’t write lengthy reports, but I help entrepreneurs make good choices, find the right supplier, and apply for subsidies.”

Stefan also offers solutions for grid congestion: “Many restaurants and cafes want electric kitchen appliances, but run into the problem of an overloaded power grid. Often, however, small adjustments can open up new possibilities. The same applies to charging stations: there are often more options than people realize.”

Entrepreneurs' experiences

Since 2018, Stefan has been assisting a wide range of businesses, from construction companies to restaurants and sports clubs. He advises on energy conservation as well as green initiatives, such as replacing tiles with greenery at companies like Gamma and Vandeberg Keukens.

Autoschade Steenbeek has consulted the sustainability coach on several occasions. They replaced their lighting, installed solar panels, and set up a heat pump. Stefan also helped with grant applications and storing solar power in batteries. Dick Steenbeek: “We’re really happy with the help Stefan provides our company. No nonsense, great communication, and very practical!”

Curious to hear what other business owners have to say? Then check out this video about making businesses more sustainable at Kickersbloem 3 in Hellevoetsluis.