Laco sport- en recreatiecentrum Glanerbrook schaatsen Geleen - Ice skating

Renovation

Glanerbrook sports complex in Geleen will become more environmentally friendly thanks to the installation of solar panels that cover the open-air ice rink and a new 50-meter competition swimming pool. This decision was approved by the Sittard-Geleen municipal council on Wednesday evening. The swimming pool project has a price tag of 11.5 million euros, while the roof costs 5.5 million euros.

Energy-neutral ice rink

This environmentally friendly initiative is part of the renovation of the complex, the first phase of which was given the green light in December 2022. Originally budgeted at 50 million euros, costs rose to almost 75 million euros, largely due to factors such as the war in Ukraine and higher steel prices.

To keep the project feasible, there are adjustments were made to certain parts of the plan. For example, the cycling track surrounding the 400-meter ice rink will not be covered. Millions could be saved by only providing the ice rink with a hood, without side walls. However, the velodrome will be renovated.

To make the complex completely energy neutral, investments are being made in an installation for the storage, sale or return of solar energy. The goal is to increase the yield of the solar panels so that the complex does not have to purchase additional energy, even on days with insufficient sunlight. The GroenLinks/PvdA faction has submitted a motion to ensure that any additional electricity is purchased as green energy from Europe if there is insufficient sunlight. This makes Glanerbrook Sports Complex an example of sustainability and environmental awareness.