The construction sector is at the start of a major transformation: the electrification of the construction site. From battery containers and hybrid drives to silent, emission-free machines — new technologies are changing how construction sites are organized and supplied with energy.
But where do we stand today? What technical and regulatory challenges remain? And how can companies prepare for this shift?
In this Deep Dive session, we combine expert presentations with a live demonstration to provide a comprehensive overview of the policy frameworks, technological trends, and practical applications that enable the electrification of construction sites — all in one morning. The session concludes with an interactive discussion on needs, barriers, and opportunities for collaboration within this rapidly evolving domain.
Please note this session will take place in Dutch
Programme:
- 09:00 – 09:30: Welcome & Coffee
- 09:30 – 09:45: Policy Vision
- An overview of urban policy on sustainable construction sites and the challenges encountered in practice
- 09:45 – 10:00: Trends in Electrification of the Construction Sector
- Speaker: Johan Driesen (EnergyVille/KU Leuven)
- From silent machines to emission-free equipment: a look at key technological developments
- 10:00 – 10:20: Battery Systems on Construction Sites: Opportunities & Regulations
- Speaker: Raf Ponnette (EnergyVille/VITO)
- What role can temporary battery systems play in powering construction sites?
- 10:20 – 10:40: Demonstration – Smart Combinations: Diesel and Battery in Practice
- Speaker: Jan Cappelle (EnergyVille/KU Leuven)
- Hybrid solutions as a transitional step toward full electrification
- 10:40 – 11:00: DC Networks on Construction Sites: Safety and Reliability
- How direct current networks can contribute to efficient and safe energy distribution on temporary sites
- 11:00 – 11:30: Break
- 11:30 – 12:30: Interactive Group Discussion: Needs, Barriers & Opportunities for Collaboration
- Using discussion statements, we will map the challenges and needs of participants and explore possible follow-up actions and collaborative projects.
- 12:30 – 13:30: Lunch & Networking
Practical Details:
- Date: 2 December 2025
- Location: Lecture Room L226, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Gebroeders de Smetstraat 1, 9000 Ghent
- Price: Free of charge
- DMA: We ask SMEs and mid-sized companies to complete the “digital maturity assessment” (takes about 10 minutes), as required by the EU.
