Municipality invests in Skûlenboarch solar park
Municipality of Tytsjerksteradiel has decided to participate in Zonnepark 'Skûlenboarch' as an entrepreneur. The municipal council has agreed to the college's proposal to purchase shares for a maximum of € 6.9 million. This will give the municipality 70% ownership and control of the solar park. The realization of the Skûlenboarch solar park fits within the municipality's ambitions to be energy-neutral by 2040.
Courageous decision
"This investment requires a political statement from the City Council. After a nice substantive debate, the municipal council made a courageous decision," said Alderman Berber van Zandbergen. On July 9, 2025, Enerzjyk Skûlenboarch again asked the college to consider investing in the Skûlenboarch Solar Park. This time the investment for the municipality is lower and there is an improved business case. In addition to the financial return, there is also a large social return. Finally, the SDE++ subsidy threatened to expire on December 1, 2025, making the realization of this solar park uncertain.
Local ownership
"By investing in the 'Skûlenboarch' Solar Park, we are taking responsibility for energy transition and securing local ownership of the solar park," said Van Zandbergen. As owner, the municipality has a say and can manage local interests. "The proceeds benefit the mienskip; from sustainable projects to social facilities. In this way, we work together with the energy cooperative Enerzjyk Skûlenboarch on a sustainable future for Tytsjerksteradiel," Van Zandbergen continued. The municipality sees the investment as a pilot to gain experience with local ownership of energy and to be prepared for the fundamental changes in the energy system.
Reservations
In the council proposal, the college had already included a number of resolutive conditions. Through an amendment submitted by the CDA, PvdA/GL, Christian Union and D66, the council added a number of resolutive conditions. In order to be able to make a careful assessment and a good decision.
Unique project
The 'Skûlenboarch' Solar Park will be the largest floating solar park in Europe. And has come about through close cooperation with the mienskip. Thanks to the favourable SDE++ subsidy, the solar park has a price guarantee in the event of negative electricity prices and there are no restrictions on the supply of electricity back to the electricity grid. This makes the Solar Park 'Skûlenboarch' a unique project.
