Fresh energy at OML: two new forces introduce themselves

With the arrival of Lara Klaassen and Niels Gisbertz, Ontwikkelingsmaatschappij Midden-Limburg (OML) has added two enthusiastic sustainabilityists. They come from completely different backgrounds - Lara from the world of nature and the environment, Niels from high-tech mechanical engineering - but share the same ambition: to make business parks in Limburg future-proof. Time to get acquainted!

"Without energy, everything stands still," says Niels Gisbertz. According to him, meeting this need sustainably is essential. As an energy consultant at OML, he looks for appropriate measures for companies struggling with grid congestion or other challenges. "You can no longer simply pull a thicker cable and be done. We have to think more creatively and smarter about (the future of) energy supply."

This future-oriented way of thinking is also in Lara Klaassen's blood. Since July 1, she has been director of greening business parks. Her approach? No thick plans in a drawer, but concrete steps. "There are already so many studies. Above all, I want to make sure that these are not just ideas, but that something actually happens."

Lara has a background as an environmental scientist, but worked for several nature organizations for many years. For example, she was a manager at Natuurmonumenten and for 12 years director of a foundation focused on nature education and management. "I am more of a director than a content expert," she tells herself. "I make sure that parties find each other and that something gets off the ground." She previously fulfilled a similar role as a quartermaster at a wealth fund.

OML felt like a logical next step. "It's an evolving organization, looking to redefine social relevance. I love building something new together. OML has bold ambitions in the field of sustainability. I would like to contribute to that."

For Niels, the move to OML meant a significant change in direction. He studied engineering physics and worked in mechanical engineering for over 15 years, including at ASML and Smink Group. His role was mainly technical and focused on innovation within the semiconductor and inkjet printing sectors.

"Sustainability has always been important in my personal life, but in my previous job I couldn't do much with it. At OML, I can apply my knowledge and experience to sustainable energy facilities at business parks. I find that a nice challenge."

"I talk to entrepreneurs: what are they up against? How can we find solutions together, collectively or individually? Sometimes it's about energy, sometimes about broader sustainability. I look beyond traditional solutions and investigate new ways to guarantee energy supply. For example, by seeking cooperation and developing innovative systems."

Both Lara and Niels feel at home in their new roles. Together with municipalities, entrepreneurs and partner organizations such as LIOF and LWV, they are ready to make an impact. Lara: "I can keep going here, I like that. And I have great colleagues, that makes it extra fun." Niels agrees: "For me, this is really a fresh start. I'm learning a lot and am curious to see how our contribution will really matter."

With these two new forces on board, PVB Limburg is taking a step forward towards future-proof business parks. Not with words, but with deeds. Because as Lara puts it, "There's been enough talk. Time to act!"