New wind farm plans for Wijk bij Duurstede: residents to co-own and benefit
Residents near Wijk bij Duurstede could soon co-own a new wind farm along the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal. The project promises at least 50% local ownership, financial benefits, and safeguards for health and livability. Here’s what it means for you.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Along the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal, Wijk bij Duurstede (Utrecht province) |
| Initiators | Local landowners (previously Eneco) |
| Energy Target | 100 GWh (enough for ~30,000 households annually) |
| Local Ownership | At least 50% of the wind farm open to residents and entrepreneurs |
| Next Steps | Province of Utrecht to review the environmental agreement |
| Resident Involvement | Active participation in design, research, and evaluations |
| Environmental Fund | Planned for local benefits (details to be developed) |
| Consultation Hours | Every Tuesday, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Wijk bij Duurstede town hall (by appointment) |
The Province of Utrecht oversees energy and climate policies, including wind farm developments, ensuring they align with regional sustainability goals. The municipality of Wijk bij Duurstede facilitates local engagement and ensures resident interests are represented in the planning process.
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Read the full translated article below
Wind Energy Wijk bij Duurstede: Environmental Agreement Signed
The Province of Utrecht and the Municipality of Wijk bij Duurstede are collaborating on a plan for wind turbines along the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal. We are informing you because some residents in the Municipality of Buren may notice the plans for this wind farm in Wijk bij Duurstede.
Initiators and Consultation Group Sign Environmental Agreement
The landowners have taken over the initiative for the proposed wind farm from Eneco. They have now signed an environmental agreement with the Consultation Group. This agreement includes key decisions that will serve as a foundation for the project’s continuation and further collaboration.
Agreements Regarding the Future Wind Farm
The framework agreements aim to ensure that the future wind farm does not negatively impact the health, social cohesion, livability, or financial position of local residents. The environmental agreement stipulates that these agreements will also be upheld by the initiators (in addition to the target of generating 100 GWh and a viable business case).
The environmental agreement also includes agreements on:
- Participation in the next phase: It has been established how local residents, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders will remain actively involved in design choices, research, and evaluations.
- Conducting research: It has been determined which studies will be carried out in the next phase.
- Financial participation: It has been agreed that at least 50% local ownership will be possible. The specifics of financial participation will be further developed in the next phase, including considerations for a local residents’ scheme and the establishment of an environmental fund.
What’s Next?
The signed environmental agreement will be submitted to the Province of Utrecht. The Province will review whether everything has been conducted in accordance with the rules and agreements. If approved, the initiators will proceed to the next phase of the project.
How Can I Stay Informed?
The Province of Utrecht is responsible for communication and engaging residents through participation. For more information, visit: www.provincie-utrecht.nl/windWijkbijDuurstede. You can also subscribe to the newsletter on this website.
Do You Have Questions or Concerns About Wind Energy in Wijk bij Duurstede?
If so, you can attend the consultation hours of Lisette Sipman, the independent process facilitator. These are held every Tuesday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Wijk bij Duurstede town hall. By appointment only. Alternative times may be arranged upon request. To schedule an appointment, please send an email to: