The Port of Rotterdam Authority has supported the new energy and climate package presented by the Dutch government in the spring budget memorandum. Together with Deltalinqs, the City of Rotterdam and the province of South Holland, the port emphasizes the importance of investments in industrial sustainability. CEO of the port Boudewijn Simons noted that the measures provide short-term support and create a foundation for sustainable development, but that further cooperation with the government is needed to create an attractive investment climate.
The package includes significant investments, including funding for the SDE++ program for 2026, which will enable the use of CO₂ capture technologies and hydrogen. In addition, the state assumes risks for the Aramis project for the transport and storage of carbon in the North Sea. This increases the interest of companies in reducing CO₂ emissions in the Port of Rotterdam. An important decision was the rejection of a tax on plastic, which could have dealt a blow to the chemical cluster. Also, the renewal of the Indirect Cost Compensation (IKC) subsidies will help reduce the difference in electricity prices with neighboring countries.
However, business in the port continues to face a number of barriers – from CO₂ emissions fees to legal uncertainty over nitrogen permits. The port authority calls for urgent solutions to preserve the industry and ensure energy security. It also emphasizes the importance of accelerating the construction of the electricity grid and developing the green hydrogen market – this is key to the future of carbon-free industry in Rotterdam.