23 February 2026

On 2 March 2026, construction of an Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system will begin at the Huizinga and Arsenaal buildings. Leiden University is making its buildings more sustainable, including those on the Humanities Campus. A TES system reduces both CO₂ emissions and energy consumption. The Herta Mohr Building is already connected to the system, and Doelenzijde is next.

Planning

From March through July, wells will be drilled at two locations, which will then be connected by underground pipelines. During this period, there will be periods of noise and traffic disruption around the Huizinga, Arsenaal and Reuvens buildings.

The work (carried out by De Ruiter Boringen) will take place in three phases:

• Early March – late March: Drilling of the first well in the Paterstraatje, near the fence of the Hortus botanicus, close to rooms 0.12 and 0.13 in Huizinga.
• Late March – late April: Drilling of the second well in the Arsenaalstraat, at the location of the parking bay.
• April – July: Installation of the underground pipelines via the Cleveringaplaats between the two wells, followed by completion of the works.

Minimising Disruption: Teaching and Alternative Workspaces at Other Locations

Measures are being taken to limit noise disturbance as much as possible. We will take exam periods into account, particularly during the drilling of the wells. Where possible, teaching and other activities will be moved to other buildings as a precaution. For staff who experience disruption during the drilling activities, temporary alternative workspaces are available in Lipsius and may be requested via email at huisvesting@hum.leidenuniv.nl.

Questions or Comments About the Construction?

Twice a week, there will be walk-in consultation hours in Huizinga for staff, students, and local residents who have questions about the work. On Tuesday mornings from 09:00 to 12:00 and Thursday afternoons from 13:00 to 15:00, Wendy Tebbertman from De Ruiter Boringen will be available for information and questions in room 0.15.

You can also send an email to info@humanitiescampus.nl. 

Sustainable Campus, More Efficient Energy Use

The Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system is a sustainable energy solution that uses groundwater for thermal storage. In summer, heat is stored in underground wells and reused in winter for heating. In turn, buildings are cooled in summer using cold water that was stored during winter. The result is reduced CO₂ emissions and lower energy consumption.