Aalst (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ronsevaal Castle in Erembodegem, near Aalst, is being renovated by Peter Temmerman and Alheembouw to become energy-neutral by 2030, featuring heat pumps, solar panels, and rainwater reuse.
As VRT News reported, the historic Ronsevaal Castle in Erembodegem, near Aalst, is being transformed into an energy-neutral property. They noted that the project is concerned with integrating heritage conservation with contemporary construction methods. The work will be aimed at upgrading insulation, installing new ventilation with heat recovery systems, and adding low-temperature heating suitable for the castle’s large rooms.
“I grew up in Erembodegem and used to come and play on the castle grounds as a little boy. Five years ago, I had the opportunity to buy the castle from the previous owner. He was primarily looking for someone to take care of the entire estate,”
Peter Temmerman said.
What will make Aalst’s Ronsevaal Castle fully energy-neutral by 2030?
A new energy building will be added beside the castle. It will contain heat pumps, solar panels, and thermal storage systems to supply renewable energy. The plan also includes a water treatment plant to collect and reuse rainwater for daily operations.
The project is slated for completion by 2030. There is still some time before the major structural elements, like the roof and foundation repairs, get tackled. The gatehouse along Brusselsesteenweg is being fully renovated and will become offices for the new redevelopment of the site. The castle has been protected since 2012, which means the restoration has to follow certain heritage regulations.
“There’s obviously a lot of tension between heritage and energy neutrality. Such work requires extensive insulation. That’s not possible with heritage buildings, and the interior also needs to be handled with care. Moreover, you have to consider the building’s vapour management. We’re working on it. We’re looking for a solution,”
Peter Temmerman says.
Peter Temmerman expects some administrative challenges, as different experts often give conflicting advice during such projects. He mentioned that despite these hurdles, work on the estate continues step by step. The initial energy-neutral projects by the Dillen family were in Gors, Limburg, and now, just like Gors, they are working on similar projects.
Erembodegem, near Aalst, features Ronsevaal Castle, built by architect Joseph Stily between 1892 and 1895. It is an architecture of the late 19th century. It also has historic outbuildings, which include the 1930-built and 1960 expanded villa Les Trembles.
A major renovation of the castle and park was initiated in 2020, aiming for its completion by 2030, to become fully energy-neutral. The renovation is within a framework of protected heritage status, meaning the cultural and architectural value of the site has also been recognised.
