WKR Chair Jan-Willem Erisman recently informed the council that all coal-fired plants in the country will cease operations by 2030 to comply with legal requirements and that continuing to operate existing coal plants contradicts the goals of the Netherlands' long-term climate planning. Therefore, without allowing additional time for coal use, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to hinder the goal of reducing emissions by 7% from original levels. about 7% of total greenhouse gas emissions come from coal.



He informed the council that with the introduction of multiple policies, all climate-related projects may become less effective over time. He also explained that without the development of other clean energy projects, such as large-scale battery storage systems to store wind-generated power, future projects may not be implemented due to a lack of financial support.

As the council has debated the topic of coal energy in light of higher natural gas prices and disruptions in natural gas supply through the Strait of Hormuz, 23 member nations reassessed their dependence on coal.

Italy has announced that it will keep the life of its coal plants through 2038; Germany has also shown intentions for more coal use; and Japan has brought its older coal facilities back online.

In addition, there are voices from some Dutch politicians in support of having coal plants as backup. Topsector Energie stated that maintaining coal plant capacity .