New nuclear power plants in the Netherlands, an ambitious Dutch-Belgian partnership

The development of nuclear energy is an important part of Dutch energy and climate policy, with plans to build two new nuclear power plants by 2035.

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The development of nuclear power plants in the Netherlands is back on the national policy agenda. Indeed, Tractebel has signed a memorandum of understanding with NRG-Pallas. The objective is to collaborate in the provision of engineering services for the construction of the latter. The latter was signed during the Belgian-Dutch nuclear summit. Nuclear power currently plays a minor role in the Dutchelectricity supply. The Borssele plant, with a capacity of 485 MWe (net), only provides about 3% of the total production. This plant has been in operation since 1973 and is scheduled to close in 2033.

Nuclear energy is at the heart of the Dutch climate and energy policy

In December 2021, the new coalition government of the Netherlands has placed nuclear power at the heart of its climate and energy policy. According to preliminary plans, two new reactors will be completed around 2035. They will each have a capacity of 1,000 to 1,650 MWe. The two reactors would supply 9 to 13% of the Netherlands’ electricity production in 2035. The firm announced in December 2022 that it considered Borssele to be the most suitable site for the construction of the new reactors.

Tractebel and NRG-Pallas: a fruitful collaboration

Tractebel and NRG-Pallas said in a joint statement that both companies have the capabilities and expertise to support the design, specification and engineering of nuclear facilities. But also licensing, operation, life extension and decommissioning. “Together, Tractebel and NRG-Pallas form the ideal team to provide the required engineering services that will contribute to the new nuclear power plant construction program in the Netherlands,” they said.

Tractebel has over 60 years of experience in nuclear engineering. She acts as the owner’s engineer for the Pallas research reactor project in the Netherlands. It has also contributed to the construction of nuclear power plants around the world, including in Sweden, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Brazil. The Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group (NRG) is a leader in the research of new nuclear technologies. NRG has over 50 years of experience in nuclear fuel testing. In addition, they also have extensive experience in nuclear technology research.

By joining forces with the major Dutch nuclear players, Tractebel and NRG-Pallas will have the opportunity to further contribute to new nuclear power plant construction initiatives in the Netherlands. At Tractebel, Denis Dumont, Chief Officer Global Nuclear at Tractebel, is convinced of their multidisciplinary expertise. He believes that it is essential for the successful completion of nuclear projects in the Netherlands. In addition, it also highlights NRG-Pallas’ expertise and knowledge of the local market. Knowledge that he considers essential for the success of new nuclear projects in the Netherlands.

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