HHNK Remains Critical of the Preferred Location for the 380-kV Substation

On October 23, the national government published the draft preferred decision for the new 380 kV transmission line in Northern North Holland . The Hollands Noorderkwartier Water Board (HHNK) remains critical of the proposed location of a high-voltage substation in the deep Wieringermeerpolder.

During a working visit by State Secretary Jo-Annes de Bat to Agriport in May of this year, we once again raised our concerns. We emphasized at the time that critical energy infrastructure should, as much as possible, be built in a safe, robust, and climate-resilient location. The Wieringermeerpolder lies well below sea level, which, according to HHNK, creates unnecessary risks for a facility of national and critical importance.

We recognize the importance of a stronger power grid for the energy transition and for reducing grid congestion, but believe that water safety and the guiding principle of “water and soil as guiding factors” should carry greater weight in the site selection process.

In response to the draft decision, HHNK will submit a statement of views to the national government. In this statement, we will explain our objections and points of concern in greater detail.

More background information on HHNK’s position can be found in the position paper on the 380 kV North North Holland transmission line.