Groningen authorities oppose nuclear plant plans in Eemshaven

The Province of Groningen and the municipalities of Eemsdelta and Het Hogeland have submitted a formal letter of objection to the Dutch House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) regarding plans to build two new nuclear power plants. The regional authorities are contesting the national government's method for selecting potential sites, specifically challenging the inclusion of Eemshaven as a viable location.

The letter argues that the government's research is flawed and that the conclusion—which suggests only Eemshaven and Terneuzen are suitable—does not logically follow from the environmental impact assessments. According to the regional authorities, research from grid operator TenneT indicates that no single location is ideal, with Eemshaven being described as the ‘least unsuitable’ due to existing power connections.

Furthermore, the municipalities express concern that selecting a site for nuclear power before finalizing Groningen's broader role in the energy transition—including wind and hydrogen projects—could make other regional energy plans nearly impossible to implement. They contend that the House of Representatives currently lacks sufficient information to make a decision with ‘consequences for generations’ and urge a delay in the selection process.