The Dutch Province of Zuid-Holland has launched a large-scale study into potential locations for wind turbines across 21 municipalities in the Rotterdam–The Hague region. This initiative aims to address the rapidly growing demand for renewable energy and to reduce pressure on the electricity grid.
Within its Regional Energy Strategy (RES 1.0), the Rotterdam–The Hague energy region set a target of generating 2.8 to 3.2 terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable electricity from large-scale wind and solar by 2030. Part of this target has already been achieved or is in development. However, an estimated shortfall of 0.280 TWh still needs to be met, with wind energy identified as a key solution.
According to regional executive Arno Bonte, expanding renewable energy capacity is essential. Electricity demand is increasing rapidly due to the growth of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and industrial decarbonisation. Wind energy, alongside solar and heat solutions, is considered a critical pillar. Generating energy closer to consumption areas is also expected to alleviate strain on the electricity grid. The province is therefore exploring how to generate an additional 0.280 TWh annually.
Study and public consultation
The study begins with the so-called Scope and Detail Note (NRD), which outlines what will be investigated and how. A draft version was previously prepared in 2024, identifying potential wind energy search areas based on RES 1.0. Following advice from the Environmental Impact Assessment Committee to broaden the scope beyond these predefined areas, the process was temporarily paused.
The Province has now restarted the procedure with a revised NRD and will conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (OER), which includes environmental, social, and economic factors. Locations already designated in the provincial environmental regulation—such as those covered by the Rotterdam Regional Wind Agreement—will not be reassessed, as wind energy development is already permitted there.
Next steps
The NRD will be available online from late April until 14 June. Following the consultation phase, a comprehensive OER will be carried out. Based on this analysis, the province will develop several scenarios for the most suitable locations, including options for dispersed versus clustered turbine placement and variations in turbine height. Municipalities and residents will be invited to contribute to these scenarios.
The ultimate objective is to determine a preferred development scenario. The selected locations will be incorporated into provincial spatial planning policy. A final decision will then be made by the Provincial Council, after which project developers can apply for permits. Source: Provincie Zuid-Holland