Study warns of energy-system impact from nuclear plants in Eemshaven

Groningen Seaports says building two nuclear power stations in the Eemshaven would be a complex choice, particularly if they were placed on the existing Eems power station site. The port operator’s conclusion, based on an external study, adds a local energy-system concern to the government’s ongoing search for a site in the northern Netherlands or Zeeland.

Consultancy Common Futures examined the potential effects on the local energy system for Groningen Seaports, which manages the ports of Delfzijl and Eemshaven. It found the Emmapolder, west of the port area, a less problematic option, but said it could still have a “potentially significant impact” on the energy system.

The Dutch government said last summer that three options remained for two new nuclear plants: two sites in the Eemshaven and an area near Terneuzen in Zeeland. Grid operator TenneT has said the Eemshaven is technically the best option.