Netherlands weighs small modular reactors as alternative to large nuclear plants

The Dutch cabinet’s plan to build two large nuclear power stations has hit a dead‑end. While the preferred sites in Zeeland face technical and public‑acceptance problems, grid operator TenneT has presented an alternative scenario that would replace the two 3.2‑GW plants with six small modular reactors (SMRs) of about 533 MW each, distributed across the country. Potential SMR locations include Bleiswijk, Dodewaard, Europoort, A9 Zuid, Maasbracht and Lelystad.

In a live‑debate in The Hague, a parliamentary majority expressed support for nuclear energy but did not settle on a specific site. Lawmakers from parties such as the CDA, ChristenUnie, PVV, Partij voor de Dieren, SP, D66 and BBB voiced concerns about locating reactors in Groningen – still affected by gas‑extraction impacts – and questioned the suitability of Borssele and the proposed Eemshaven site in the north. The discussion highlighted the tension between the need for CO₂‑free electricity and regional opposition, while emphasizing that any final decision must balance energy security, grid infrastructure and local acceptance.