A Paper Factory 15 Meters from Natura 2000 Area Veluwe
A factory in this location has a significant impact on nature due to the considerable nitrogen emissions. We are intervening and want to use the energy connection of the factory to reduce network congestion.
Reducing Nitrogen and Network Congestion
Of all industrial companies in the Netherlands, paper factory De Hoop (after 5 factories) has the largest nitrogen load on nature. This is not only due to the amount of nitrogen emitted but especially because the factory is located 15 meters from the Natura 2000 area Veluwe. We want all sectors to contribute to reducing nitrogen emissions. Only then can Gelderland eventually be free from restrictions. It is currently impossible to issue new permits.
On the factory site, there is a connection from grid operator TenneT. The contracted capacity of that connection is currently 18.5 MegaWatts. This is not being used, while there is a search for a power supply of 100 MegaWatts for the entire province. This is necessary to connect new housing projects to the energy grid.
New Energy System on the Site of De Hoop
We want a new energy system on the site of the (closed) factory De Hoop. Such an energy system has the potential to make all paper and cardboard factories in Eerbeek and Loenen more sustainable. As a result, (in the long term) the industry emits no nitrogen and CO2. This is one of the ways to make the paper and cardboard industry future-proof. This is important because it is a major employer in the region.
Gelderland Takes Control: Less Nitrogen, Less Network Congestion, Preserving Jobs
This is truly a unique opportunity for Gelderland, but also in the Netherlands. We can hit 3 birds with one stone: less nitrogen, less network congestion, and a future-proof industry and employment. By taking control as a province, we make a difference here.
Gelderland Deputy
Preparatory Decision
To make this possible, the Provincial Council unanimously agreed to the preparatory decision. The Brummen municipal council has also indicated that it can agree with this. Such a preparatory decision is a heavy instrument, but necessary due to the significant societal challenges. As a province, we take our responsibility and take a step forward.
Project Decision
In the coming 18 months, we will create a project decision. This decision is a condition for a new energy system for the paper and cardboard factories. Together with the owner, the municipality of Brummen, Water Authority Vallei and Veluwe, and the Industrial Core Eerbeek-Loenen, we will further develop how we will achieve these goals.