Majority of Dutch support building more nuclear power plants

More than half of the Netherlands’ population supports the construction of additional nuclear power plants, according to an analysis by ANP of a survey question in the Kieskompas voter advice tool.

About 53 percent of respondents said the country should build more nuclear plants, while just under a quarter opposed the idea.

Currently, the Netherlands operates a single nuclear power plant in Borsele, Zeeland. The Dodewaard plant was closed in 1997.

Although plans exist to build new facilities, strict regulatory requirements mean it can take years to obtain the necessary permits.

Support for nuclear expansion varies regionally. In Urk, 70 percent of respondents favor building more plants, the highest level of support nationwide.

In Borsele, often referred to as the “nuclear plant municipality,” six out of ten residents expressed agreement. Opposition is strongest in Oldambt, Groningen, where only three out of ten residents support constructing additional plants.