A recently published study, commissioned by Dutch Minister of Climate Rob Jetten, suggests that the approval and construction of smaller, modular nuclear reactors could be implemented faster than previously thought. The investigation, conducted by the Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group (NRG), demonstrates the possibility of building approved and established water-cooled modular nuclear reactors within seven years. However, the implementation of novel nuclear technologies not previously utilized in the Netherlands would require more time.
Gas prices in Europe have dropped dramatically, and for the first time since the summer of 2021, the price is below 30 Euros per megawatt-hour. This ongoing trend could lead to a significant reduction in energy costs for households.
Vattenfall leads the way: Return of multi-year energy contracts and falling prices. After a long absence, multi-year energy contracts are back on the market. Major energy suppliers such as Vattenfall, Eneco, and Budget Energie are once again offering three-year agreements. This follows a period when energy companies were reluctant to provide long-term contracts because of the risk of fluctuating energy prices.
The Dutch economy experienced a contraction of 0.7% in the first quarter of 2023, according to preliminary calculations from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). This decrease in gross domestic product (GDP) volume is primarily due to a decline in the trade balance and an increased withdrawal from reserves.
In global first, Dutch wind parks in the North Sea were shut down for four hours on Saturday, May 13, 2023, to allow migratory birds a safe passage. This measure carried out at Borssele and Egmond aan Zee, is part of the commitment of the Dutch government and the involved companies to emphasise ecology and biodiversity in offshore wind parks.
