Heat programme

In 2021 the municipality of Uithoorn adopted the Heat Transition Vision. This outlines, at a high level, how we can move to sustainable heating instead of natural gas. But how do we turn this vision into concrete actions? That happens in the Heat Programme.

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What is the Heat Programme?

The Heat Programme is a policy document that sets out which neighbourhoods in Uithoorn and De Kwakel will phase out natural gas, when, and in what way. This elaboration is more concrete than the Heat Transition Vision. It covers:

• Which neighbourhoods will eventually become natural-gas free (or natural-gas free-ready);
• Which sustainable techniques are most suitable for them;
• What the planning looks like per neighbourhood or district;
• How residents will be involved and supported during the transition;
• Which partners (such as housing associations, Liander, local organisations) are working together on this task.

The programme forms the bridge between vision and implementation.

Why a Heat Programme?

From 2026, municipalities are legally required to adopt a Heat Programme. This is regulated in the Municipal Instruments for the Heat Transition Act (Wgiw), which gives municipalities more control over the transition to sustainable heating. In the Heat Programme, we can also designate areas that will phase out natural gas — with plenty of preparation time and in consultation with those involved.

What does this mean for you?

For most residents, nothing will change for now. The transition to sustainable heating will happen step by step. Uithoorn will start in the Legmeer neighbourhood. For other neighbourhoods, it will be investigated in the coming years which solution fits best: from a district heating network to an individual (hybrid) heat pump.
If your neighbourhood is up next, you will be informed well in advance.

What’s next?

In 2026 the municipality will work on the content of the Heat Programme. From 2027 the programme will become public and available to everyone. You will then be able to see the plans for your neighbourhood, and when the switch to sustainable heating may be relevant.