Grid operator TenneT wants to connect power from wind energy area Nederwiek Noord to the national high-voltage grid near Geertruidenberg or Moerdijk. Together with Arcadis, Pondera Consult prepared the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the connection of the wind energy area. The environmental impact assessment commission issued a (very) positive opinion on the phase 1 MER. We are proud of our work on the recent Environmental Impact Report (EIR), which takes us one step further in the energy transition of the Netherlands.

The first phase of the EIA studied four alternative routes for the underground cable from the Voordelta (nature reserve off the coast of the islands of Zuid-Holland and Zeeland) to the high-voltage grid. In addition, several locations for the converter station were analysed: five near Geertruidenberg and six near Moerdijk.

The report provides an overview of the environmental impacts of the different alternative routes and converter station locations. The main environmental effects studied include effects on nature, water quality, soil disturbance in the Voordelta and noise pollution for the surrounding area. Based in part on the environmental impact report, the minister will make a decision for a preferred alternative. The second phase of the EIA will then examine the preferred alternative in more detail.

The Committee values the comprehensive analysis and finds that the environmental impact assessment contains sufficient information to make a decision on the preferred alternative in which environmental interests are fully considered.

Delighted with our contribution

At Pondera, we are proud to have once again contributed to a careful and sustainable process in the energy transition. Together, we are working towards a future where sustainable energy goes hand in hand with care for nature, heritage and the living environment.