JA21 's private member's bill puts pressure on the recovery of Groningen and North Drenthe

The closure of the Groningen field is, for good reason, the first measure taken by Nij Begun 

More than two years after gas extraction from the Groningen field ceased, thousands of residents are still dealing with damage repair and reinforcement efforts. For many, the consequences of decades of gas extraction are still felt on a daily basis. Provincial Executive Member Susan Top, speaking on behalf of the regional governments: “The closure of the Groningen field finally brought the promise that the source of danger, damage, and uncertainty would disappear. That certainty is the foundation for Groningen’s recovery. By keeping wells open and allowing new gas extraction, this proposal once again puts that certainty under pressure. It is no coincidence that closing the Groningen field is the first measure of the ‘Nij Begun’ initiative. This proposal is at odds with the fresh start promised to the residents of Groningen and North Drenthe.” 

Keeping wells open also means new gas production

The private member’s bill aims to keep parts of the Groningen field available as an emergency gas reserve. To that end, wells and facilities must remain open and operational. According to the bill, this requires what is known as “readiness production.” This means that gas can be extracted again to test, maintain, and keep facilities operational. In addition, the proposal allows for emergency production during a gas crisis or an impending gas crisis. According to the region, this is not only about maintaining an emergency supply, but also about enabling new gas production from the Groningen field. 

New Uncertainty Regarding Reinforcement, Damage, and Repair

The region is concerned about the consequences for residents who are still waiting for damage repairs or reinforcement of their homes. The current reinforcement approach is based on the phasing out and termination of gas extraction. If gas extraction becomes possible again, uncertainty arises regarding the consequences for ongoing and future reinforcement decisions. Residents who have waited years for clarity are at risk of once again being confronted with questions and uncertainties. According to the region, the bill also lacks sufficient clarity regarding damage and liability and creates new uncertainties for residents. 

Groningen shouldn't have to foot the bill again 

The region understands the importance of a reliable energy supply. At the same time, the parliamentary inquiry into natural gas extraction in Groningen has painfully exposed what happens when national energy and economic interests take precedence over the safety of residents. That is precisely why the decision was made to permanently close the Groningen field. Residents of Groningen must never again be made to bear the brunt of national energy policy. Furthermore, the price of natural gas is determined by the international market, and new gas extraction from the Groningen field has no significant impact on it. The region calls on JA21 to honor the agreements that have been made. The Groningen field must remain closed, and the decommissioning must continue. Residents must be able to count on the peace of mind, clarity, and certainty that have been promised to them.