--- title: Emissions reduction through data-driven control of generators date: 2023-08-22T16:12:00+02:00 author: Eric Hos canonical_url: "https://www.bredenoord.com/en/cases/emissions-reduction-through-data-driven-control-of-generators/" section: Case --- ![VolkerWessels ODF Pop hillegom data driven control](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2hlcm8vb2xkX3NpdGUvcG9waGlsbGVnb20zLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjQyMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjoxNzYsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) Bredenoord and VolkerWessels Telecom are reducing CO2 emissions and nuisance caused by generators at temporary project sites by up to 70%. This has been demonstrated in a pilot project with client Open Dutch Fiber (ODF). By running generators only when power is needed, fuel consumption – and consequently CO₂ emissions – is significantly reduced. The reduced operating hours also result in less odour and noise pollution. Furthermore, less fuel transport to the project sites is required. ## Generator equipped with a timer programme ODF builds and manages fibre-optic networks throughout the Netherlands. All households are connected to the fibre-optic network via a distribution cabinet, known as a PoP (Point of Presence) local exchange. [VolkerWessels Telecom](https://www.vwtelecom.com/) is responsible for the full management and monitoring of the local exchange on behalf of ODF, as well as corrective and preventive maintenance. The local exchange is supplied with power. Often, when the fibre-optic network is being built, there is not yet a permanent power connection for the local exchange. Bredenoord therefore supplies temporary generators. The use of these generators is temporary: the average duration of a project is 4 months. The generators supply power to the local exchange, enabling the installed hardware to be put into operation. Part of this is the monitoring unit from VolkerWessels Telecom. As the local exchange contains an internal battery, the generator does not need to run continuously. Bredenoord has therefore equipped the generator with a timer programme. In practice, however, the generator was found to be running unnecessarily despite the timer programme, thereby causing unnecessary CO2 emissions and noise pollution for local residents. ## Data-driven control and hybrid configuration VolkerWessels Telecom and Bredenoord have joined forces to investigate whether the generator in the local distribution substation could be switched on a demand-driven basis, depending on power requirements. In VolkerWessels Telecom’s NOC, the various assets in this district substation are already being monitored, with pre-specified thresholds and parameters continuously monitored (such as temperature, humidity and battery voltage). These insights are obtained via the monitoring unit, which VolkerWessels Telecom has been able to install in every district substation. This unit is also utilised in the pilot setup developed, enabling power insights and battery conditions to be correlated and used to control the switching on and off of the generator. This contrasts with the traditional timer-based schedule. In short, by combining the technology in the PoP monitoring unit, utilising sensor data and adjusting the generator’s configuration, a hybrid technology has been implemented to replace the conventional approach. The active installation now consists of a combination of the generator and a battery (located within the district substation) which previously had separate functions. This hybrid technology is already frequently used by Bredenoord. What makes the collaboration with VolkerWessels Telecom unique is the further digitalisation and adaptability of the system. ## Reduced fuel consumption and noise pollution thanks to fewer generator running hours By actively controlling the generator remotely based on data (only when power is required), the number of unnecessary running hours has been significantly reduced. This results in lower fuel consumption and, consequently, lower CO₂ emissions. The remaining operating hours are also more effective because the generator operates more efficiently under a higher load. An additional benefit is that the reduction in fuel requirements has also reduced the number of refuelling trips. This prevents disruption caused by heavy vehicles in a residential area. The reduced operating hours also result in less odour and noise pollution. Furthermore, the times at which the generator runs can now be programmed (at times when local residents were not at home or were least affected), thereby limiting noise emissions even further. ## Results The initial results of this data-driven control system are promising. Below are the results of the PoP installation in Heerhugowaard, based on a project duration of 4 months: ![Emissiereductie datagedreven](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2NvbnRlbnQvRW1pc3NpZXJlZHVjdGllLWRhdGFnZWRyZXZlbi5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJwbmciOnsicXVhbGl0eSI6ODIsInByb2dyZXNzaXZlIjp0cnVlfSwicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo0MjAsImhlaWdodCI6Mjg4LCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9LCJzaGFycGVuIjp0cnVlfX0=) ## Sustainability ambitions The solution aligns well with VolkerWessels Telecom’s ambition to operate emission-free by 2030, with collaboration with supply chain partners being an essential element. ‘Emission-free’ refers not only to CO₂ emissions, but also to nitrogen emissions and noise pollution in the surrounding area. Bredenoord’s ambition is not only to work towards an emission-free Bredenoord (foodprint and supply chain), but also to play an active role in realising our customers’ sustainability ambitions. We can only achieve this by entering into partnerships with experts and partners to serve and realise the common interest (the customer). In this case, a partnership with VolkerWessels Telecom to help ODF find a solution to noise pollution and to contribute to the emission targets. *In the video below, you can see how the project was realised.* ### About Bredenoord Since 1937, Bredenoord has been the leading specialist in temporary and mobile power solutions. All over the world, we ensure that businesses, institutions and government organisations can operate exactly as they wish – in a clean, efficient and responsible manner. With our fleet of battery systems, wide range of generators and accessories, and our experienced engineers, service technicians, drivers and consultants, we are on hand 24/7 to ensure you can get started straight away. #### Towards an emission-free future for temporary power Through our R&D department, we have been working for years to make temporary and mobile power as emission-free as possible. In doing so, we ensure our customers have a guaranteed power supply, even when fossil fuels are less desirable or available and strict (emission) regulations apply. From simple, effective solutions such as a patented particulate filter to larger challenges such as mobile solar panels. For example, Bredenoord was the first to introduce a [hydrogen generator,](https://www.bredenoord.com/nl/huren/specials/de-hydrogen-power/) and the [ESaver](https://www.bredenoord.com/nl/huren/battery-boxen/15-esaver/) was the first mobile battery solution for smaller power requirements. We often collaborate with other companies, government organisations and innovation partners in the development of new technologies and solutions for sustainable energy security. ### About VolkerWessels Telecom [VolkerWessels Telecom](https://www.vwtelecom.com/) designs, builds, manages and maintains data and telecoms networks that enable diverse and complex communication flows. Through our integrated approach and the provision of end-to-end solutions, we take the pressure off the market and contribute to innovation throughout the entire supply chain. As part of VolkerWessels, we are building a sustainable, socially responsible world, whilst minimising the negative impact of our activities on the environment. We aim for lower, more sustainable and more efficient energy consumption in order to continuously reduce our CO2 emissions. Our ambition is to operate completely emission-free by 2030. By focusing on smart and targeted measures, we will achieve a CO2 reduction of more than 70% by 2030 through our own efforts. To this end, we are taking measures such as making our vehicle fleet and office locations more sustainable, investing in emission-free equipment and utilising construction logistics hubs. Examples of these are set out in our [Sustainability Roadmap 2030](https://www.vwtelecom.com/nl/over-ons/duurzaamheid). To be able to operate completely emission-free, we are also partly dependent on others. We are therefore actively seeking collaboration with our clients, regulators, the supply chain, knowledge institutions and other partners. ### About Open Dutch Fiber [Open Dutch Fiber](https://opendutchfiber.nl/), the leading independent, open-access Fibre-to-the-Home platform in the Netherlands, builds and operates its network in towns and villages, providing high-quality fibre-optic connections to Dutch homes and businesses. The platform, whose shareholders include KKR and DTCP, has an open architecture and makes fibre-optic services available to all operators in the Netherlands. At our company, we have set ambitious targets to become climate-neutral by 2030. Together with our suppliers, we are striving for a greener future and contributing to a more sustainable and resilient world. As a company, we value not only the environment and climate, but also social responsibility and good governance. 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I’m happy to help ![Peter van Huit Bredenoord](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2F2YXRhci9QZXRlci12YW4tSHVpdC1CcmVkZW5vb3JkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjEyMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjoxNjAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) Peter van HuitArea Manager South-West Netherlands ![Peter van Huit Bredenoord](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2F2YXRhci9QZXRlci12YW4tSHVpdC1CcmVkZW5vb3JkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjQwMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjozNzksImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) **Peter van Huit**Area Manager South-West Netherlands ![Peter van Huit Bredenoord](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2F2YXRhci9QZXRlci12YW4tSHVpdC1CcmVkZW5vb3JkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjQwMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjozNzksImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) Looking for similar results? Let’s talk. Our experts are here to help. Contact us ![Peter van Huit Bredenoord](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2F2YXRhci9QZXRlci12YW4tSHVpdC1CcmVkZW5vb3JkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjQwMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjozNzksImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) **Peter van Huit**Area Manager South-West Netherlands ## More case studies [ View all case studies ](https://www.bredenoord.com/en/cases/) [![Energy for energy project: Bredenoord guarantees that water pumps will continue to operate 24/7](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2hlcm8vb2xkX3NpdGUvQ2FzZS1IZWFkZXItTW9iaWxlLUVuZXJneS1CYWx0aWMtUGlwZS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJqcGVnIjp7InF1YWxpdHkiOjgyLCJwcm9ncmVzc2l2ZSI6dHJ1ZSwidHJlbGxpc1F1YW50aXNhdGlvbiI6dHJ1ZSwib3ZlcnNob290RGVyaW5naW5nIjp0cnVlLCJvcHRpbWl6ZVNjYW5zIjp0cnVlfSwicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjozNzUsImhlaWdodCI6Mzc1LCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=) Energy for an energy project: Bredenoord ensures water pumps will operate 24/7 Dewatering specialist Hölscher has been awarded a contract to drain the pipe trenches under excavation on the Jutland peninsula and the island of Funen as part of the Baltic Pipe Project. The challenge: at times the groundwater level is higher than the lowest point of the planned excavations. Also, the section under construction is approximately 140 kilometres long and is highly vulnerable to flooding, owing to its proximity to the sea. To keep the pipe trench dry, Hölscher is relying on the continuous operation of its water pumps. Bredenoord has undertaken the task of providing an uninterruptible power supply to the pumps. This way it is possible to lay the gas pipelines without any problems, despite of the challenging conditions. 09-06-2021 ](https://www.bredenoord.com/en/cases/energy-for-energy-project-bredenoord-ensures-water-pumps-will-operate/ "Energy for an energy project: Bredenoord ensures water pumps will operate 24/7")[![Bredenoord 30x esaver](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2hlcm8vb2xkX3NpdGUvQnJlZGVub29yZC0zMHgtZXNhdmVyLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7ImpwZWciOnsicXVhbGl0eSI6ODIsInByb2dyZXNzaXZlIjp0cnVlLCJ0cmVsbGlzUXVhbnRpc2F0aW9uIjp0cnVlLCJvdmVyc2hvb3REZXJpbmdpbmciOnRydWUsIm9wdGltaXplU2NhbnMiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjM3NSwiaGVpZ2h0IjozNzUsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) ESaver popular with Dura Vermeer In the autumn of 2013 Bredenoord, together with Dura Vermeer, launched the hybrid generator the ESaver.This arose from the wish to save on the use of generators. They always ran at peak power while for the biggest part of the day only a small amount of power is needed. Since that time the Dutch construction and infrastructure company weekly deploys different ESavers for new projects. 10-02-2015 ](https://www.bredenoord.com/en/cases/esaver-popular-with-dura-vermeer/ "ESaver popular with Dura Vermeer")[![Fehmarnbelt tunnel Denmark Infrastructure project](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2hlcm8vb2xkX3NpdGUvRmVobWFybmJlbHQtdHVubmVsLURlbm1hcmsuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWUsInRyZWxsaXNRdWFudGlzYXRpb24iOnRydWUsIm92ZXJzaG9vdERlcmluZ2luZyI6dHJ1ZSwib3B0aW1pemVTY2FucyI6dHJ1ZX0sInJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6Mzc1LCJoZWlnaHQiOjM3NSwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19) Fehmarnbelt tunnel. Denmark’s largest infrastructure project and the world’s longest immersed tunnel The Fehmarnbelt tunnel will remove a bottleneck, reduce travel time and strengthen links between Scandinavia and Central Europe. Construction of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel began in 2020 on the Danish side and in 2021 on the German site. The tunnel will be completed in 2029. 08-11-2023 ](https://www.bredenoord.com/en/cases/fehmarnbelt-tunnel-denmarks-largest-infrastructure-project-and-the-worlds-longest-immersed-tunnel/ "Fehmarnbelt tunnel. Denmark’s largest infrastructure project and the world’s longest immersed tunnel") [ View all case studies ](https://www.bredenoord.com/en/cases/) ![Peter van Huit Bredenoord](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2F2YXRhci9QZXRlci12YW4tSHVpdC1CcmVkZW5vb3JkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjQwMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjozNzksImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) **Peter van Huit**Area Manager South-West Netherlands ![Peter van Huit Bredenoord](https://d214mxx6i7ojph.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJicmVkZW5vb3JkLXByb2QtYnVja2V0Iiwia2V5IjoiaW1hZ2VzL2F2YXRhci9QZXRlci12YW4tSHVpdC1CcmVkZW5vb3JkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InBuZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo4MiwicHJvZ3Jlc3NpdmUiOnRydWV9LCJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjQwMCwiaGVpZ2h0IjozNzksImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==) **Peter van Huit**Area Manager South-West Netherlands