Energy Café NH: Energy, water and growth
The energy transition is about more than just sustainable generation. Water also plays an increasingly important role. Smarter water management often means lower energy consumption, reduced costs, and operations that are more resilient to climate change, grid congestion, and scarcity. Water and energy are therefore inextricably linked.
Energy, water and growth – how innovative entrepreneurs make a difference
This edition of Energiecafé Noord-Holland takes center stage with three inspiring entrepreneurs from West Friesland. They demonstrate how societal challenges have led to innovation, new business models, and a stronger competitive position. No theoretical stories, but practical examples from which other entrepreneurs can learn immediately.
The meeting aligns with current developments in the region. At the end of August, the Het Grootslag Area Agreement will be presented, in which entrepreneurs, government authorities, and knowledge partners collaborate on solutions for issues concerning energy, water, sustainability, grid congestion, and land use. The speakers' experiences demonstrate what these developments mean for businesses in practice.
Be inspired by open conversations about entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration. Which choices make the difference? Where do the opportunities lie for the coming years? And how can you, as an entrepreneur, already anticipate the challenges of tomorrow? Naturally, there will be ample opportunity to exchange experiences afterwards during the networking drinks.
Program
16:00 – 16:10 | Welcome – Michael Cornelis, Sustainability Manager SVZ Transport
SVZ is one of the largest logistics service providers in the Netherlands and a leader in the field of electric transport. The transport company participates in an energy cooperative and now has a charging hub for trucks.
16.10 – 16.20 | Jeroen Laan – Ronico
Winner of the Horticulture Entrepreneur Award 2026. Jeroen explains how innovation and entrepreneurship have contributed to Ronico's success and which strategic choices were decisive in this regard.
4:20 PM – 4:30 PM | Rick Gitzels – Gitzels Plant Nursery
What opportunities and challenges lie ahead for entrepreneurs in Het Grootslag? Mike shares his vision for the future of the area, where entrepreneurs, governments, and other parties collaborate on solutions for issues surrounding energy, grid congestion, sustainability, water, and land use.
16.30 – 16.40 | Antoon Vreeker – Rainwater Technology (Vreeker Group)
How do you turn a societal challenge into an opportunity for innovation and new business? Antoon shows how themes such as water, climate adaptation, and sustainability can lead to innovative products, services, and business models.
16.40 – 17.10 | Entrepreneur Talk
Led by a moderator, the three entrepreneurs and a representative of SVZ Transport engage in a discussion about entrepreneurship. The following questions, among others, will be addressed:
- Which choices have had the most impact on your company?
- Why is innovation so successful specifically in West Friesland?
- What should you have started sooner in hindsight?
- What lessons do you pass on to other entrepreneurs?
- What role do water, energy, and collaboration play in the future of entrepreneurship?
Afterwards, there will be ample opportunity to chat and make new contacts during the networking drinks.
Practical information
Location: SVZ Transport, De Marowijne 2, 1689 AR Zwaag
Date: Thursday 1 October 2026
Time: 15.30 - 18.00
About Energy Café North Holland
The Energy Café connects entrepreneurship, policy and knowledge in Noord-Holland Noord to collaborate on concrete solutions for current energy challenges. Each edition focuses on a different part of our region, showcasing the innovations and practical solutions already being applied there or under development. Get inspired, expand your network, and discover how you can already take steps today in collaboration with others towards a smarter, more efficient, and future-proof energy system.
The Energy Café is an initiative of New Energy Coalition, Development Company Noord-Holland Noord and Rabobank.