Province of Limburg takes next step in strengthening high-voltage connection Maasbracht–Graetheide

The Province of Limburg has officially established the Scoping and Level of Detail Memorandum (NRD) for the strengthening of the high-voltage connection between Maasbracht and Graetheide. This marks another important step in enhancing an affordable and reliable power supply in Limburg, enabling households, mobility, social institutions, and businesses - including Chemelot - to further sustain themselves and facilitating housing development.

The Scoping and Level of Detail Memorandum (NRD)

The upgrade of the high-voltage connection from 150 kilovolts to 380 kilovolts is necessary to meet the increasing demand for electricity and to enable the energy transition. By establishing the NRD, it becomes clear which environmental effects need further investigation. An NRD provides insight into the background of the project, the search area to be investigated for the project, and the assessment framework based on which the environmental impacts of the project are studied. The MER Committee has given positive advice on the NRD and appreciates the broad research approach proposed by the Province and TenneT. The Province takes the positive advice of the MER Committee into account when drafting the environmental impact report.

What does this mean for the surroundings?

The plans development focuses as much as possible on limiting the impact on residents and the landscape. After additional consultations with grid operator TenneT and the Ministry of Climate and Sustainable Growth, it was decided not to conduct further research into underground cable installation. Research shows that faults in underground cables at this high voltage level can have a major impact on the power supply in Limburg and beyond. The Province continues to pay attention to the livability in Brachterbeek and surroundings and will work together with the national government, involved municipalities, residents, and other stakeholders on a regional approach.

Next steps

The now established NRD forms the basis for the environmental impact report and the final project decision. The draft of this project decision is expected to be published at the end of 2026, after which residents can again give their opinions.