A debate in the Dutch Parliament on Thursday revealed stark differences within the ruling coalition over gas extraction in the Groningen region. The dispute centers on the interpretation of “no more Groningen gas,” a key phrase in the coalition agreement.
While the right-wing PVV, conservative-liberal VVD, and agrarian BBB argue this only refers to the large Groningen gas field, they support the potential continuation of extraction from smaller fields, like Warffum. In contrast, centrist NSC insists the phrase covers all gas extraction in the region, including small fields.
The debate was triggered by an application from gas company NAM to extend its license for gas extraction from the Warffum field, which expires at the end of this year. The Socialist Party and other left-leaning opposition parties, as well as local residents, oppose the extension, citing safety concerns. Henk Vermeer (BBB) defended the position, calling it a compromise made during coalition talks.
Opposition parties, including the progressive Democrats 66 (D66) and the animal rights-focused Party for the Animals (PvdD), accused the government of breaking promises to Groningen residents, demanding an immediate halt to all gas extraction in the province.
A decision on the Warffum license will be made later this year by Climate Minister Sophie Hermans (VVD), who was notably absent from the debate, leading to criticism from opposition members.
Gas extraction from the Groningen field, once Europe’s largest, has been linked to earthquakes, leading to its closure earlier this year. However, smaller fields like Warffum continue to operate, sparking ongoing debate over safety and energy security in the region.
