The collaboration takes place within the Covenant for Clean and Emission-Free Construction. This year, no less than 49 new municipalities joined, bringing the total to more than 120 co-governments. They commit to the objectives of the covenant and gradually carry out more and more construction projects in a clean and emission-free manner. This is a huge boost for the construction sector and underscores that collaboration works. New market players have also joined, making the covenant now count 159 partners. Together, they are taking an important step towards a cleaner, quieter construction site.
Today, the Secretary of State sends the Stimulating Clean and Emission-Free Construction for Co-Governments scheme to the House of Representatives. This scheme encourages the use of clean construction equipment that emits less nitrogen and can thus make a difference in the granting of permits. The scheme provides co-governments with the opportunity to apply for financial support to compensate for any additional costs of emission-free equipment. The market benefits from this as well. As demand for clean construction machines arises, investment certainty is created.
Secretary of State Thierry Aartsen (Public Transport and Environment):
"With this scheme, we enable municipalities, provinces, and water authorities that sign the Covenant for Clean and Emission-Free Construction to continue building. By investing together in emission-free equipment, we not only make construction possible but also future-proof. This way, we make the construction sector cleaner and keep construction projects moving."
In 2024, 94 construction projects have already been realized with the scheme, and in 2025, the total will grow to over 200 projects. With the scheme for 2026, which has now been sent to the House of Representatives, many more are expected. Thanks to the scheme, co-governments can realize construction plans for homes, roads, and bridges. For 2026, more than €120 million has been allocated to continue this successful approach. By continuing to invest in clean construction methods, we ensure that the Netherlands can continue to build homes, roads, and infrastructure now and in the future.