About
Delft & The Netherlands
The Energy Renovation Sector in the Netherlands
The Netherlands, and Delft, have long been front runners in the energy transition in the building sector. The recent introduction of the Dutch Climate Agreement by the Dutch government is further accelerating efforts in Holland by setting out targets to achieve a reduction of 3,4 Mton CO2 in the built environment. To achieve this goal, among other targets, 200,000 existing homes per year will have to be renovated as of 2030. These challenging targets are positioning the region as a flourishing and leading environment for researchers, companies and policymakers working in the energy renovation sector.
For the Netherlands alone, the renovation and maintenance market for existing buildings is €29 billion. This is already a huge market, which in a very short time will have to transform and innovate to meet the targets set for emission reduction in the built environment.
About Delft
Delft is a charming old city of 100,000 inhabitants. The beautiful city centre with its canals, markets, famous monuments and museums make it one of Holland’s most attractive cities. Entrepreneurs, scientists, students and tourists all meet in the city’s many restaurants and cafes today, as they have done for centuries. That is why Delft is a breeding ground for creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship. William of Orange, Hugo de Groot, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Johannes Vermeer and Reinier de Graaf are all icons whose work established Delft’s excellent international reputation.
Despite its rich heritage, Delft has its sights firmly set on the future. Making history the Delft way means pushing the envelope, technologically and culturally. The city boasts leading knowledge institutions like TNO and the Delft University of Technology, well-known museums, and interesting galleries. There are also the much-loved back streets and the intimate, tree-lined squares with their lively terraces bursting with atmosphere, making Delft’s historic city centre a favourite haunt for visitors and the city’s highly educated, internationally oriented inhabitants alike.
Tourist attractions
Orange
Delft and the Royal family of Orange have been connected for centuries. The city has many examples of their shared history to show you.
The Nieuwe Kerk, or New Church, dates back to 1496. Here, you will find the royal burial vaults and visit the impressive mausoleum of William of Orange.
The Prinsenhof Museum is housed in the former Saint Agatha monastery. In 1572, William of Orange used it as one of his residences. It was from this place that he led the uprising against the Spanish occupation of The Netherlands. On July 10th 1584, he was assassinated on the steps of the Prinsenhof by a collaborator, Balthazar Gerards. Two bullet holes in the wall still bear witness today to this historic event
Vermeer
Delft is the home town of the world famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. He was born in Delft in 1632, where he lived and worked all his life.
The Vermeer Centre Delft offers a voyage of discovery through the life and work of this 17th century master of light, as well as the beautiful town that inspired his timeless art. Visitors enter Delft as it was, see actual size images of the master’s entire body of work, learn about his technique in the studio, the stories behind the pictures and the magic of his work that still fascinates millions today.
The Hague
Although The Hague is Holland’s third largest city, it exudes an atmosphere that is friendly yet lively. The city offers a remarkable combination of seaside fun and modern city life in historic surroundings. There are many museums, theatres and festivals all year round. The legendary
Mauritshuis offers an extensive collection of masterpieces including Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. The Municipal Museum is well known for its collection of paintings by Piet Mondriaan, such as the famous ‘Victory Boogie Woogie’. www.denhaag.com
Distance from Delft: 13 km
(14 minutes by car, trains offered 4 times per hour)
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a young, dynamic world city with a daring, can-do spirit. It is a city that is constantly renewing itself, witnessed by its impressive, ever-changing skyline and the many cultural and sports events. This means Rotterdam is a city you can keep discovering over and over.
Rotterdam is an open and hospitable city, easily reached by ship, train, car or plane.
Its many attractions are all accessible via a well-developed public transport network.
Distance from Delft: 13 km
(14 minutes by car, trains offered 4 times per hour)
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands, boasts over 50 museums presenting the most diverse collections and exhibitions. The largest and most well-known are all world famous, such as the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, Hermitage, Anne Frank House and
Rembrandt House. Amsterdam is also known for its canals, diamonds, night life, flower market, Red Light District and excellent shopping. www.amsterdam.nl
Distance from Delft: 60 km
(44 minutes by car, trains offered 4 times per hour)