Top van Onderop: confronting the energy transition

At Good Growth Collective, we believe that leadership means tackling the difficult questions head-on. On June 17th, our co-founder Bernd Hendriksen brought this mindset to the stage at the second edition of Top van Onderop. In his role as Chairman of the Gelders Energieakkoord (GEA), he joined industry experts and public sector leaders to accelerate the journey toward a climate-neutral Gelderland.

The gathering stood out because it focused on the hard truths. Under the theme of "Top en Taai" (Highs and Hardships), the organization ensured that the stage was not reserved for success stories alone. It was also a place to discuss the complex struggles that slow us down. We engaged in honest conversations about the friction points of the transition. We acknowledged that we often learn more from where the wind blows against us than from when we have it at our backs.

A major highlight of the plenary session was the launch of the "First Aid for Grid Congestion 2.0." This practical guide was presented to MKB-Nederland chairman Jacco Vonhof. It offers entrepreneurs concrete tools to navigate the current capacity crisis. It is a prime example of moving beyond identifying a problem to co-creating a solution that keeps businesses running.

Beyond the main stage, the workshops dived deep into the technical and social specifics. Discussions ranged from the potential role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the industrial energy mix to the lessons learned from the "Zwarte Cross" festival’s sustainability footprint. The diversity of topics proved that the transition requires a holistic approach. It spans everything from heating networks to logistics electrification.

Top van Onderop confirmed that systemic issues cannot be solved in isolation. This is why we prioritize deep involvement in networks like the GEA. These are not just theoretical discussions. They represent the practical hurdles standing between our clients and their sustainability goals. Bernd’s leadership role allows us to stay close to the fire, ensuring that the guidance we provide is based on a real-time understanding of how the energy landscape is changing.

Curious how these regional shifts impact your business? Reach out to us to discuss your strategy.