Country's largest tree harvester takes lead in energy transition

Tree harvester Weijtmans is taking its responsibility in the transition to a sustainable economy. For example, the country's largest tree harvester invested five years ago in an energy-neutral and CO₂-emission-free office building and in recent years has invested energetically in the electrification of its machinery and vehicle fleet. Perhaps for this very reason, director-owner Kees Weijtmans is critical of current government policy.

The zero-emission office building in Udenhout, which includes 400 solar panels on the roof, no air conditioning and rainwater infiltration, has been running smoothly for many years, according to Kees. "It is pleasant to work here. But since we have been making our machinery more sustainable (read: electrifying, because we already run on HVO for 100%) we have our backs against the wall. Obtaining a heavier grid connection is a real challenge, and if you are fully committed to electrification, you still can't really do without it," Kees knows from experience. And that while more and more government clients prescribe emission-free work. He therefore believes that a good energy network is of primary importance to realize the energy transition. "You can't just leave that to private parties acting from shareholder interests; the government must also take responsibility here."

Kees also says the subsidy policy could use an overhaul. "It is now more like a lottery. We invest many millions in sustainable equipment, but it's always a matter of waiting to see whether the subsidy is allocated. Subsidy is a nice instrument to get the wheel rolling, but distribute the 'pot' among all of us instead of one person getting something and the other nothing. That just doesn't feel right. I think all contractors in the Netherlands should be given the opportunity to make the transition to zero-emissions. Otherwise the smaller parties are going to be the child of the bill."