ROTTERDAM, 25 March 2025 – With the electricity grid nearing its limits, Rotterdam is accelerating collaboration and innovation to ensure key developments can continue.

Grid pressure prompts proactive city response

Following the December announcement that South Holland’s electricity grid has reached full capacity—Rotterdam included, with the exception of the Maasvlakte—the city has moved swiftly to address the impact on development.

Large consumers of electricity, such as schools, supermarkets and companies, are currently unable to obtain new or upgraded connections. However, existing contracts remain in place and are being optimised where possible.

Rather than allowing this to hinder growth, the municipality is working closely with grid operators TenneT and Stedin, as well as developers and business leaders, to minimise delays and find workable interim solutions.

Housing, schools and business still moving forward

The city has mapped out potential delays in housing and commercial projects. In 2025, eleven mixed-use developments could be impacted by temporary grid limitations. However, efforts are underway to keep these projects on track—particularly when it comes to essential services like lifts, ventilation and lighting in new apartment buildings.

Educational institutions and other public services also face delays, but are being prioritised where possible. A joint search for solutions—such as temporary setups and shared connections—is ongoing with Stedin.

The city is also supporting continuity in existing business areas and making strategic choices in the allocation of resources, enabling Rotterdam to remain attractive to new and existing enterprises.

Capacity expansion underway

Network expansions are already in development. TenneT expects additional capacity in Hoek van Holland, Rozenburg, Pernis and the port area between 2027 and 2029. For the wider city, new infrastructure is expected between 2032 and 2035.

In the meantime, Alderman Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Building and Housing) reaffirmed the city’s commitment: “Grid congestion is no excuse to pause. We are actively working with all partners to find what is still possible—through innovation, smarter planning and faster infrastructure development.”

Smart planning and energy innovation

The municipality is aligning grid upgrades with other infrastructure works to reduce delays. Discussions with Stedin are exploring how critical services—such as lifts in housing blocks—can be prioritised even within current limitations.

A range of innovations is being promoted. The city is co-financing so-called Flex Scans, which help companies use their existing electricity connections more efficiently. Up to 80% of costs are reimbursed, encouraging broader participation.

Through the Smart Energy Systems subsidy programme, entrepreneurs are also being encouraged to develop tailored solutions. Examples include energy-sharing hubs in Schiebroek and improved energy efficiency in the port area.

Supporting businesses and developments

The city is inviting companies and developers to explore creative approaches within their existing grid contracts—such as energy sharing, local storage and flexible use.

Advice, subsidies and practical support are available through the municipality, and early conversations with Stedin are strongly encouraged.

All current measures and future plans are outlined in the “Rotterdamse Aanpak Netcongestie” (Rotterdam Net Congestion Approach), which is updated every two years to reflect the latest developments.

ROTTERDAM, 18 March 2025 – SAWA, Rotterdam's pioneering wooden residential building, has successfully allocated its middle-income apartments, prioritising key workers and enhancing urban sustainability.

Introducing SAWA: Rotterdam's wooden residential landmark

SAWA stands as Rotterdam's first fully wooden residential building, reaching 50 metres in height. Located in the Lloydkwartier district, a neighbourhood with a rich maritime history, SAWA's design incorporates generous green terraces, referencing Eastern rice fields and contributing to urban biodiversity. The building comprises 109 apartments, with a mix of owner-occupied and rental units, including 50 designated for middle-income tenants.

Middle-income housing in SAWA allocated to key workers

The allocation process for 50 middle-income apartments in SAWA has been completed. A significant portion of these homes has been designated for individuals working in social professions and those transitioning from social housing.

Out of the 50 apartments, 43 were allocated to individuals who met one or more priority criteria designed to support social inclusiveness. The project aligns with Rotterdam's broader housing objectives by combining homeownership opportunities, sustainable timber construction, and community-focused living spaces.

The allocation figures reveal that:

• 28% of the homes were given to individuals working in education.
• 25% were allocated to healthcare workers.
• 8% were assigned to police officers.

In addition, 15 tenants are moving out of social housing managed by housing associations, opening those properties for new residents in need of affordable housing.

Social and sustainable impact

The SAWA development reflects the city’s commitment to sustainable urban planning. Chantal Zeegers, Rotterdam’s Alderman for Building, Housing, and Climate, praised the project:

“With SAWA, we demonstrate that affordable housing and sustainability can go hand in hand. Thanks to priority rules, key workers can continue living in Rotterdam close to their workplaces and communities. This project also supports mobility within the social housing sector, which helps us make a tangible impact on the city.”

SAWA’s development aligns with Rotterdam’s Middle-Income Housing Action Plan (Actieplan Middenhuur), aimed at providing affordable housing for middle-income earners, ensuring they can remain in the city.

Developer's vision

Mark Compeer, co-founder of NICE Developers, commented on the project:

“This is precisely why we developed SAWA. With these priority rules, we contribute to a fairer housing market and prove that affordable homes can be built even in Rotterdam’s most sustainable building. We are thrilled that so many key workers for the city have found a home here.”

Collaboration and execution

The rental process was handled by NICE Developers on behalf of Focus on Impact in collaboration with Schep Vastgoedmanagers. Further cooperation with housing associations Havensteder and Woonbron helped increase the project's impact.

Address and directions

SAWA is located in Rotterdam’s Lloydkwartier, a developing area known for its blend of modern architecture and proximity to the river Maas.

ROTTERDAM, 15 March 2025 – Riva residential tower set to rise in Rotterdam's Wijnhaven district after legal hurdles are resolved. The building will combine luxury apartments with commercial and office spaces.

Riva tower approved for construction in Rotterdam

The construction of the Riva residential tower in Rotterdam's Wijnhaven district is expected to commence this year following a ruling by the Dutch Council of State, which dismissed an objection against the project. The tower has been designed by MoederscheimMoonen Architects and will be built atop an existing post-war office building.

A blend of history and modern design

The Riva tower will stand approximately 65 metres tall and will feature 56 apartments. The development will also include office spaces and retail units on the ground floor. The site is located at the corner of Scheepmakershaven and Bierstraat, where two office buildings, designed between 1956 and 1963 by architect W.J. Fiolet, currently stand. These structures have been recognised by the Rotterdam municipality as valuable examples of post-war architecture, requiring careful preservation during redevelopment.

Distinctive design with wavy balconies

MoederscheimMoonen Architects has designed Riva as a prominent extension of one of the original office buildings. Instead of competing in height with nearby towers, Riva was designed with a larger footprint to accommodate spacious apartments with large outdoor terraces.

The distinctive wavy balconies surrounding the building provide a visual contrast to the post-war base structure. These balconies are intended to create varied viewpoints across the city. The outer edge of the balconies will be constructed from anodised aluminium and cold-bent glass. The underside will feature light brown, plank-textured concrete to complement the building’s appearance.

The number of apartments per floor decreases towards the top, starting with four apartments on the lower floors and culminating in a penthouse on the uppermost level.

Riva tower to bring 56 apartments to Rotterdam

Communal spaces and connectivity

Between the original office building and the Riva tower, a communal area will be constructed, featuring a shared lounge space adjacent to a rooftop garden. This intermediate layer will also include a distinctive truss framework that serves as a defining architectural element.

The original corner office building will be preserved, while parking facilities and studios will be incorporated into the upper floors of the existing structure.

Project details

• Project: Riva
• Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Client: Stebru
• Size: 10,300 m²
• Programme: Apartments, offices, retail spaces, and parking
• Status: Final design phase

Directions

Address: Scheepmakershaven, Rotterdam
The site is located in Rotterdam’s Wijnhaven district, known for its mix of modern and post-war architecture. The area is easily accessible by public transport and is a short walk from Rotterdam Blaak station.

ROTTERDAM, 11 March 2025 – Plans for 500 to 700 new homes have been proposed for Schiehaven Noord in Rotterdam's Delfshaven district. The development is set to combine green living spaces with sustainable and affordable housing options.

Green and sustainable living in Schiehaven Noord

The Rotterdam municipality aims to construct between 500 and 700 homes on the Lloyd Multiplein at Schiehaven Noord, with a significant portion designated as social housing or within the mid-market rental segment. The exact number of residences will depend on the size of the proposed homes.

Residents' input was crucial during the consultation process, where a strong preference was expressed for a focus on green spaces and sustainability. The area is intended to be a welcoming neighbourhood where residents and visitors can meet and enjoy a pleasant living environment.

Green living plan for Schiehaven Noord: 500-700 new homes

Meeting housing demand

Alderman Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Construction, and Housing) highlighted the necessity of new housing in the city.

“We urgently need these homes because the demand for housing in Rotterdam remains high. At the same time, we prioritise a pleasant living environment, with ample green spaces and sustainable solutions. What makes this project particularly important is that the plans were developed in consultation with the community. Residents contributed valuable and inspiring ideas that have shaped the ambitions for this area's development,” said Zeegers.

Paris Proof pilot project

In 2024, Schiehaven Noord was designated as a pilot location for ‘Paris Proof’ construction, part of Rotterdam’s Sustainable Construction Action Plan (Samen duurzaam doorbouwen aan de toekomst van Rotterdam). The initiative aims to promote sustainable and affordable design and construction methods with minimal CO2 emissions.

The project will focus on circular design and construction, emission-free building, climate adaptation, and enhancing biodiversity. The ambition is to create a future-proof residential area aligned with European climate targets and the Paris Climate Agreement goals for 2050.

Park-like environment

The new homes will be set in a green, climate-resilient environment, resembling a park. The area will feature extensive greenery, including trees, plants, and green roofs. This eco-friendly approach is designed to attract birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.

Harbour district with historic character

Schiehaven Noord’s design will honour its rich maritime history. Plans include preserving the area’s historical harbour elements and retaining the iconic monumental gate building at Schiehaven. This approach aims to blend the district's industrial past with its new green identity.

Opportunities for water sports and recreation

Plans for Schiehaven Noord also include space for sports and recreational activities. Residents have proposed water-based sports such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and possibly even a floating swimming pool. The municipality will explore these options further.

Existing sports fields will remain part of the area but may be relocated. Any changes will be coordinated with sports clubs, local schools, and community representatives.

Community involvement in planning

Over the past year, an extensive consultation process was conducted to shape the ambitions for Schiehaven Noord. More than 300 people participated in the initial meeting in June 2024, followed by three ambition workshops in autumn 2024. Additional input was gathered through walk-in meetings and street conversations held at a mobile coffee cart.

In the next phase, residents, local businesses, and other stakeholders will again have the opportunity to provide feedback on the master plan and subsequent urban design proposals.

Green living plan for Schiehaven Noord: 500-700 new homes

Next steps

The Rotterdam municipal executive has submitted the Schiehaven Noord ambition document to the city council, which is expected to review the plan in April 2025.

Directions to Schiehaven Noord

Schiehaven Noord is located near the Lloyd Multiplein in Rotterdam's Delfshaven district, accessible via public transport or by bike. The area is close to the Schiehaven harbour and offers scenic views along the waterfront.