The Netherlands has closed the largest gas field in Europe – Kommersant

The Netherlands has closed the largest gas field in Europe – Kommersant

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Gas production at Europe’s largest field in Groningen, the Netherlands, has ceased, ANP agency reports. This happened today at 6:00 local time (7:00 Moscow time).

The gas field was discovered in 1959, and its official opening took place 60 years ago – in July 1963. At the peak of its use, more than 50 billion cubic meters were produced here. m of gas per year. However, back in 2018, the country’s government decided to gradually reduce production volumes for the subsequent closure of the field. The decision was made due to constant earthquakes associated with the mining process and protests from local residents. In June of this year the authorities decided stop gas production in Groningen from October 1.

At the same time, the authorities emphasize that gas production here can still be resumed if absolutely necessary. For example, due to a very cold winter or other unforeseen circumstances. The State Secretary for Mining at the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Hans Wijlbrief, last week signed a decree according to which the final closure of the mine will not occur until October 1, 2024. It must now be approved by parliament.

Kirill Sarkhanyants

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