For 33 years, Georges Klomp has led the Cartography Department at SUDenergie. He joined the company in 1992, back when it was still called SUDGAZ, and played a key role in shaping and modernising this vital service. With a sharp eye and a deep passion for topography, he helped build the mapping history of the natural gas network – a largely unseen but essential part of keeping infrastructure running smoothly. Now, a year before his retirement, he reflects on a career defined by innovation and precision.
“At the beginning, there weren’t many plans or much information. We often had to go on-site to locate a pipeline,” Georges Klomp recalls. In the 1990s, documentation was rudimentary, often scribbled on small A5 sheets. “Sometimes we had to rely on memory!”
Today, accuracy is central to the job, and cartography is a meticulous blend of hands-on experience and cutting-edge technology:
- Measurement surveys: Using measuring tapes, GPS, total stations or lasers, every pipeline is carefully mapped.
- Map creation and updates: Originally drawn by hand, maps have evolved into intelligent Geographic Information Systems (GIS). “Every line now carries data, including pressure, diameter, installation year and material,” explains Georges Klomp.
- Ground markings: Around 1,000 markings are made each year to secure construction sites and prevent accidents during works.
- Information sharing: Detailed plans are shared with internal teams, contractors and engineering offices to ensure smooth coordination of works.
“The real turning point was digitalisation,” says Georges Klomp. The introduction of early drawing software, followed by GIS, transformed the way the team worked. “Our drawings used to be just lines. Now they’re smart, packed with useful data.” It was a major shift that required significant effort. “We started with Bentley Microstation 95, and now we’re using Bentley 2025.”
A key milestone was the move to a new GIS platform called Small World. “In 2022, we had to replace our old system, which was no longer supported. It was a critical project. Without it, we simply couldn’t work.” Georges led the transition, and today the new system is a reliable, high-performance tool used daily by his colleagues.
Another breakthrough came with improved GPS accuracy, thanks to the SPSLUX and LUREF systems from Luxembourg’s cadastre. “Before, getting precise measurements was a real challenge. Now we can achieve centimetre-level accuracy – it’s a game changer!” This advancement has made pipeline surveys easier and significantly reduced the risk of errors.
2025: A pivotal year for digitalisation and knowledge transfer
One of the major upcoming projects is the development of a mobile app that will allow teams to access and update GIS data directly in the field. “We’ll be able to map pipelines with a smartphone, take geolocated photos and upload everything in real time,” says Georges Klomp enthusiastically.
Another initiative aims to link GIS with SAP customer data to further automate updates.
But 2025 also marks a personal milestone for Georges Klomp: his retirement after 34 years of service. “The next generation is ready, and that’s reassuring. We’ve taken the time to plan the handover. You don’t just walk away overnight here!” His successor, trained in-house, will carry on the work with a focus on driving digitalisation even further.
The Cartography Department at SUDenergie plays a crucial role in the distribution of natural gas. “No one sees us, but without us, everything would grind to a halt,” Georges Klomp says with a smile. Managing data for a network of 1,145 km of pipelines across 14 municipalities, the three-person team works closely with SUDenergie’s Network team to ensure the system is safe, efficient and ready for the future.
Georges Klomp has turned discretion into a strength. “We’re a bit like the craftsmen in the background but I’ve always liked that. My goal has always been to help the teams move forward without getting in their way.” It’s a philosophy that has guided him throughout his career.
As SUDenergie’s cartography enters a new digital era, Georges Klomp’s story is a reminder of how passion and commitment can shape a profession. Behind every construction site and every intervention are precise maps, detailed surveys and a dedicated team making sure everything runs smoothly. It’s essential work, and Georges Klomp will leave it with the quiet pride of a job well done.