The South Holland region advises the Minister of Climate and Green Growth to land offshore wind electricity in South Holland at Hoek van Holland and then connect it to the high-voltage station in Europoort. Regional authorities, led by the province, have chosen a solution that aligns as much as possible with the port and industrial area while limiting pressure on residential and natural areas.
Deputy Arne Weverling: Our advice is clear, the power cable from the sea must be connected to the grid via the Port of Rotterdam. This way, the Rotterdam port and region can grow into the power hub of the Netherlands; the junction where green electricity and hydrogen come together and can be further distributed to the European hinterland. This choice prevents unnecessary transmission losses, protects the living environment, and strengthens the position of the Port of Rotterdam as a driver of the energy transition.
Urgency for the new cabinet
The Province of South Holland and regional partners call on the new cabinet to swiftly address this task. The energy transition requires rapid decision-making, investments in infrastructure, and an integrated approach balancing space, living environment, and economy. Only in this way can we seize the opportunities arising from the transition to a fossil-free port. Offshore wind energy already supplied 16% of the Dutch electricity demand in 2023. With the target of 21 Gigawatts by 2030, the Netherlands would then generate more than 70% of its electricity demand itself.
Joint proposal
The Province of South Holland is proud of the cooperation with all involved parties; from municipalities and water boards to the national government. Thanks to this joint effort, a solid foundation has been laid for a future-proof energy system. This is an example of how South Holland, together with its partners, is shaping a sustainable and strong European energy supply.
Why this advice?
Within the Connections Landing Offshore Wind (VAWOZ) program, intensive research has been conducted in recent years on how and where energy from future North Sea wind farms can be connected to the national high-voltage grid. The regional advice is part of that decision-making. The draft program will be published for consultation in May 2026, along with all underlying studies, so everyone can submit their views. The program will then be adopted by the cabinet at the end of 2026. After that, the connections will be further elaborated in the project procedure.