The new building, which will house more than 600 employees, is a prime example of a new environmentally friendly building.
The geothermal system, where groundwater is used like a heat reservoir, is the first of its kind in Denmark. The system is very effective, reducing CO2 emissions by 70% compared to traditional heating systems.
Widex has also hopes to mount a windmill at the headquarters, and this will deliver more power annually than Widex uses in total. If permission for the windmill is granted, the company will not only be CO2 neutral, but excess power will be able to be delivered to the electricity grid, providing a CO2-free contribution to the local area.
Other features of the building are also green in character. For example, the building is equipped with a total of 20,000 solar panels spread out over 600m², and the rainwater from the roof is collected and used for flushing toilets.
The combination of visionary and pragmatic considerations has been the main motive for the company. “The building has required some large investments, but considering the increase in energy prices, we think the money will be well invested in the long run”, says Jan Tøpholm, chief executive officer and president of Widex.
