Energy piles from separatus as a smart geothermal solution
In the Netherlands, deep drilling for geothermal systems is often restricted – due to groundwater protection and existing gas deposits, among other things. However, geothermal energy is possible even with limited drilling depths: separatus energy piles offer a clever and efficient solution.
Ideal conditions for energy piles
Regions with sandy soils and high groundwater levels are particularly ideal for the use of energy piles. Pile foundations are used to harness geothermal energy while simultaneously improving the bearing capacity of the soil – especially where settlement is expected due to soft soils or high water levels.
separatus leverages this structural advantage in two ways: The piles perform not only structural but also thermal functions. The patented splitpipe system is specifically designed to meet these requirements and enables short, efficient circuits– ideal for shallow installation depths while maintaining high performance.
First separatus plant in the Netherlands
We are pleased to announce that the first separatus plant is being built in the Netherlands. Prefabricated, reinforced concrete piles with a square cross-section of 40 cm will be used. These piles are hollowed out inside to reduce transport weight.
The separatus probe is inserted into this cavity and then backfilled with thermally conductive material. This efficiently exploits the narrow cavity, with a diameter of just 25 cm, for geothermal energy. The pile thus serves as both a load-bearing component and a heat exchanger—a dual benefit that is both economically and technically compelling.
System structure: Efficient and well thought out
The system comprises 33 energy piles, each equipped with 8-meter- long separatus probes. These are connected to the heat pump in four probe circuits:
Three circles consist of eight probes, a fourth of nine. This results in a total length of 264 meters of vertical borehole probes– despite a comparatively shallow installation depth.
A particular advantage of the separatus system is its hydraulic optimization: Even with short circuit lengths, the brine fluid quickly reaches the turbulent flow area, which intensifies the heat exchange and significantly increases energy efficiency.
Horizontal connection contributes to efficiency
The probes are connected horizontally via standard 32 mm diameter hoses. These not only provide the hydraulic connection but also contribute to the thermal activation of the subsurface.
Heat exchange with the surrounding soil also takes place in these pipes – this increases the active exchange surface, which further increases the overall efficiency of the system.
Pre-assembled for quick and easy installation
The separatus probes, including connecting cables, were delivered directly to the construction site as prefabricated, bar-length products. This saves time and logistical effort and enables a particularly smooth and rapid installation.
Installation is incredibly simple: The probes are inserted directly into the prepared energy piles – without any special tools or complex assembly. This sophisticated logistics and ease of use significantly reduce installation time compared to conventional energy piles – and thus save costs.
Trust and enthusiasm on site
A big thank you goes to our sales partner in the Netherlands, Jeroen Van Der Meijden from Geothermica BV– for the trust in our solution, the committed cooperation and the warm hospitality during our visit.
Spoiler alert: Jeroen was so impressed with the system that he immediately installed a separatus probe in his new office building. We'll be presenting this project soon!
We really enjoyed our visit to the Netherlands – and are already looking forward to the next separatus installation as the perfect reason to return.
