The SEEDS project is continuing to advance at De Schipjes in Bruges, Belgium, where work is progressing on the next stage of the site’s collective energy system. Landscaping around the homes has been completed, interior finishing works are moving forward, and installation activities for the energy infrastructure are underway.

Managed by Mintus, De Schipjes is a historic residential site where energy improvements must be carefully integrated into the existing buildings. Through SEEDS, project partners are working to demonstrate how collective energy solutions can improve building performance while respecting the specific constraints of a heritage setting.

Landscaping completed as the homes take shape

The landscaping works around the homes are now complete, giving the development a more finished appearance. This visible progress marks an important step as attention shifts towards completing the interiors and advancing the technical installations needed for the next phase.

Interior finishing works continue

Inside the homes, final finishing activities are progressing according to schedule. Painting is underway, and kitchen installation is bringing the interiors closer to completion.

Building services, including ventilation, electrical systems and plumbing, are also at an advanced stage. These installations are essential to preparing the homes for the next steps in the site’s energy-system upgrade.

Advancing the energy-system installation

Alongside the finishing works, installation of the energy hub is underway. The central facility will supply energy to the site and forms part of the work to prepare the system for operation.

The Daikin heat pumps were scheduled for delivery during the week of 12 October. Following delivery, installation, testing and inspections will be required before the heating systems can be prepared for commissioning.

Preparing for commissioning

The completed landscaping, ongoing interior works and energy-system installation represent important steps towards the next phase at De Schipjes.

According to the current schedule, the heating systems are expected to be operational by mid-November, provided that delivery, installation, testing and inspections proceed as planned.

The work contributes to SEEDS’ broader objective of demonstrating energy-efficient, electrified heating and cooling solutions that can be adapted to different building contexts. At De Schipjes, this includes the challenge of integrating modern energy technologies into a historic residential environment.

As the project progresses, the experience gained at this pilot site can help inform future efforts to replicate collective energy solutions in other buildings and neighbourhoods.

Follow SEEDS for further updates on the progress of its pilot sites and the development of more efficient, flexible building energy systems.