The Netherlands: The Dutch cabinet has submitted an amendment to the Nuclear Energy Act to allow the Borssele nuclear power plant to continue operating beyond 2033. The move forms part of a wider strategy to secure reliable, CO₂-free electricity and strengthen national energy resilience.
The 485 MWe pressurised water reactor, operated by EPZ since 1973, currently provides around 3 % of the Netherlands’ electricity. The government aims to extend its lifespan to 2054, provided safety requirements are met, and is considering acquiring a stake in the plant.
“If the amendment is adopted, Borssele’s operator can apply to the independent regulator ANVS for extended operation,” the government stated. “This aligns with our policy of combining renewable and nuclear power to ensure security of supply.”
Alongside the extension, the government plans to create a new state-owned company, the Nuclear Energy Organisation of the Netherlands (NEO NL), to oversee the construction and operation of two new nuclear reactors, each with a capacity between 1,000 and 1,650 MWe. The reactors are expected to come online around 2035 and supply up to 13 % of the country’s power.
Borssele is currently viewed as the most suitable site for these new facilities, though alternative locations – Tweede Maasvlakte, Terneuzen, and Eemshaven – are under consideration.
The government is also allocating $23 M (€20 M) to support the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), working in cooperation with the United Kingdom to advance research and deployment.
Source: World Nuclear News
