With the conclusion of the public consultation for the first draft permits and the draft project decision, a next step has been taken towards the final decisions for CO2next and the other projects within the Aramis Initiative.
From September 13 to October 24, the draft project decision, the initial draft permits and the Environmental Impact Report (MER), were open for public review and comment. During this period, stakeholders and the public had the opportunity to provide their feedback. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (KGG) is now reviewing all submitted responses, which will be addressed in the coming months. In December, a second set of draft permits will be published.
Public meetings and dialogue
During the public consultation period, the Ministry of KGG and the Aramis project teams organized three information sessions for stakeholders and interested parties in Hoek van Holland and Oostvoorne. Attendees were informed about the entire Aramis infrastructure, the CO2next terminal for liquid CO₂, storage facilities, and the permitting process. Experts were available to answer questions, which covered topics such as the influence of CO₂ storage on the energy transition, the safety measures in place, and measures taken to counteract effects on nature. For those who were unable to attend, much of this information is available in the summary of the Environmental Impact Report (MER).
Next Steps
The Ministry of KGG is currently reviewing and responding to the feedback received. Once this process is complete, final permits can be granted and the final project decision can be made. Given the scale of this project, extensive research and oversight are required by various regulatory bodies, resulting in the need for numerous permits. Starting in December, a second round of draft permits will be open for public consultation and further permits will follow in 2025. At each stage, stakeholders will be invited to share their views, and there will always be opportunities for dialogue or to request additional information.
More Information
The permitting process is coordinated by the Ministry of KGG, and the consultation periods are published in the Staatscourant. For up-to-date information on the planning process, visit the website of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). A wide range of topics is covered in the public summary of the Environmental Impact Report (MER).
For any questions, feel free to contact us at info@co2next.nl.