Dutch electricity company EPZ wants to extend the life of the Netherlands’ only nuclear power plant, at Borssele in Zeeland, and suggests building two more nuclear power plants at the same site. EPZ director Carlo Wolters outlined the plans in a discussion on the role of nuclear power in the Dutch energy system with MPs on Wednesday. Two of the four ruling parties – the VVD and CDA – both see a role for nuclear power in the country’s energy mix. They argue that nuclear power does not produce carbon dioxide and that it does ensure a constant supply of power, whatever the weather, unlike wind and solar power.
EPZ says building a new reactor at the Borssele site would cost between €8bn and €10bn and take eight years. But this would only be a serious option if supported by the government, the company says. Borssele is currently scheduled to close in 2033. Economic affairs minister Erik Wiebes said in September, extending the life of the Netherlands’ only nuclear power station would be the cheapest way to cut carbon dioxide emissions and meet climate targets.
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