Nuclear Power Plants Are Considered for Construction in Groningen Province
Despite political and local resistance, Eemshaven remains under official review as one of four possible sites for new Dutch nuclear power plants.
The Dutch government is still considering Eemshaven in Groningen as one of four potential sites for two new nuclear power plants. This was made public in an official advertisement in the Dagblad van het Noorden on Friday and confirmed on the government’s nuclear energy information website.
Alongside Eemshaven, the other locations being studied are the Sloe area and Terneuzen in Zeeland, and the Maasvlakte in South Holland. The government’s goal is to build two new nuclear power plants at one of these locations.
The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth will now carry out further research into the suitability of each location. Although Eemshaven is politically sensitive and not the preferred option, Minister Sophie Hermans explained that legally it cannot be excluded from the research. A legal review confirmed that all potential sites must be examined equally before a final decision is made.
Strong Local Opposition
Both the municipality of Het Hogeland (where Eemshaven is located) and the province of Groningen have voiced clear opposition to the plan. Local officials have repeatedly stated they do not want a nuclear power plant in their region. This view is shared by the House of Representatives, which has also spoken out against Eemshaven as a site.
Nevertheless, the investigation into Eemshaven’s suitability will continue alongside the other locations. The final decision, originally expected this year, has now been delayed. The Ministry will organise an information session on nuclear energy on June 2 at Hotel Ekamper in Roodeschool to inform local residents.
More details and updates on the process can be found at www.overkernenergie.nl.
