Dutch Nuclear Plant Sites Narrowed to Eemshaven or Terneuzen

The race to select a site for two new nuclear power plants in the Netherlands is underway, with sources indicating the government will likely bypass Maasvlakte near Rotterdam and Borssele. The final contenders are reportedly Eemshaven in Groningen and Terneuzen in Zeeland. The potential selection of Eemshaven is notable, given previous local government opposition and a parliamentary majority against a plant there. However, an investigation by TenneT, the national grid operator, suggests Eemshaven is the preferred location from a high-voltage grid perspective. It appears to be the only site where the plants can be technically integrated without significant additional costs. TenneT stated that its investigation, commissioned by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, solely addresses grid integration, and other factors like environmental concerns will also influence the final decision. The plan is to build two adjacent plants for cost efficiency. Both locations require proximity to the sea for cooling. The development of offshore wind farms also plays a role in the decision-making process. A critical factor is the capacity of the high-voltage grid to transport electricity. Both Eemshaven and Terneuzen are points where offshore wind power comes ashore. Currently, Eemshaven has more available grid capacity than Terneuzen, which would require expansion. Zeeland has also set conditions, including no additional high-voltage masts or cooling towers. Local officials in Groningen have expressed frustration, citing existing agreements for bringing offshore wind power ashore and producing hydrogen.

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Do not do this to us, there is already enough happening here.