The Province of East Flanders is advancing the energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable and sustainable sources, with a key focus on integrating heat networks. To facilitate citizen connections to the heat grid, the Province collaborated with the municipalities of Evergem and Zelzate to develop heat zoning plans and visions based on technical, financial, and behavioral studies. For the behavioral study component, the participatory process known as ‘geWOONtebreker’ was employed.

Createlli partnered with the Province to design and implement an online survey aimed at encouraging citizens to reflect on their current and future energy needs while informing them about the benefits of heat networks. We created and distributed flyers to ensure broad participation in the survey. The campaign highlighted the advantages of transitioning away from natural gas and the specific benefits of heat networks.

Additionally, we developed a participant profile to better understand community support and motivations. The insights gained from the survey provided the municipalities and the Province with a comprehensive understanding of public willingness and motivations regarding the shift to heat networks.