Ministry Rules Out Nuclear Power Plants at Maasvlakte 2
Maasvlakte 2 is no longer being considered as a potential site for the construction of two new nuclear power plants. This is stated in a letter to Parliament from the Cabinet dated June 19, 2026.
There are several reasons why this location has been ruled out. These reasons relate to soil conditions, nitrogen, the availability of cooling water, and the Natura 2000 guidelines. From an energy system perspective, it is also argued that constructing two nuclear power plants at the Second Maasvlakte will be complex, due to the excessive cost of integrating them into the power grid.
Given the many projects planned for Maasvlakte 2—including the Offshore Wind Connection and Landfall Program (VAWOZ) and the potential seaward expansion of Maasvlakte 2, which is currently under review—this location would not be suitable for nuclear power plants in the long term.
“We acknowledge the ministry’s decision to provisionally designate a preferred site other than the Second Maasvlakte for the construction of two new nuclear power plants,” says Alderman Bal of the municipality Voorne aan Zee. “For our residents, businesses, and the region, this means greater clarity regarding our living environment and the future spatial planning of our area.”
“At the same time, we emphasize the importance of a reliable and sustainable energy supply for Voorne aan Zeethe Alderman continues. “The energy transition calls for well-considered choices. We therefore remain committed to ensuring that the interests of our residents and businesses are carefully taken into account. In the future as well, we will remain committed to a strong economy, an attractive living environment, and a municipality where residents and businesses can look to the future with confidence.”
Investigations
The government is evaluating various sites in the Netherlands for the construction of two nuclear power plants as part of the future energy system. A total of seven sites were evaluated for factors including technical feasibility, environmental impacts, and integration into the surrounding landscape. Based on these evaluations, the cabinet has decided not to proceed with a number of sites, including Maasvlakte 2.
The sites still under consideration are located near Terneuzen and in Eemshaven. These will be examined further in the coming period. The cabinet will make a final decision on the preferred site at a later date.
Follow-up Process
The decision on the location of nuclear power plants is made by the national government. Municipalities and other government bodies are involved in the subsequent process, as are local residents and other stakeholders. No final location has been designated at this time.
More information about nuclear energy and the ongoing studies can be found at overkernenergie.nl