Why the Netherlands is not taking advantage of the huge

Why the Netherlands is not taking advantage of the huge Groningen gas field

The Netherlands is sticking to its plan to finally halt production at what was once Europe’s largest gas field at Groningen. The government justifies this with the risk of earthquakes in the area. Therefore, you will follow the schedule, which foresees the stoppage on the 1st of October.

This may come as a surprise, as energy poverty in Europe has become an issue since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. It is not a definitive end either: but you retain the option to extend the operation for a year if there is a gas shortage in Europe after the winter.

Production in Groningen was drastically reduced in the 2010s after the risk of earthquakes was identified.