The Prime Minister discussed these topics extensively with Boudewijn Siemons (Port of Rotterdam) and Victor Van der Chijs (Deltalinqs) during a boat trip through the westernmost part of the port. The Prime Minister also took a look at the work of KRVE Rotterdam Boatmen, and was given an explanation by Sjoerd van Maanen about their work.
During the second part of the visit, the unique chemical cluster in the Botlek area was central. On the LyondellBasell site, the Prime Minister spoke with representatives of this company, Nobian, Uniper and Anne-Marie Spierings (Deltalinqs), who as cluster director gave practical explanations about grid congestion and how this makes the sustainability of the area difficult. Security of supply of electricity was also discussed, as well as the high national costs for electricity that also hinder new sustainable developments.
During the visit, employees of LyondellBasell and Nobian further explained how Rotterdam is a very favorable location due to, among other things, its location, infrastructure and the unique collaboration between companies within the complex. This has resulted in a very sustainable and efficient cluster. In the short term, the high energy costs in the Netherlands, the uncertainty about future policy and the difficult permitting due to nitrogen do not make things any easier.
Victor van der Chijs: “We were able to show our beautiful ecosystem as well as the many opportunities for sustainable industry and trade. The companies involved greatly appreciate the fact that the Prime Minister took the time to delve into this during the working visit.”