Opsterland municipality continues to oppose gas extraction
The municipality of Opsterland will continue to oppose gas extraction in Fryslân, particularly in the vulnerable peat meadow area. The recent vote in the House of Representatives on a motion to temporarily halt gas extraction did not receive a majority. The municipality considers this a missed opportunity.
At present, knowledge institutes TNO and Deltares are conducting research into the effects of gas extraction under peat meadow areas on behalf of the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth. Among other things, they are looking at the impact on soil subsidence, soil structure, water management, infrastructure, and foundations. Precisely because not all effects Map yet Map properly Map , the municipality emphasizes the importance of waiting for these research results before allowing new gas extraction.
An unacceptable legacy
The peat meadow area is vulnerable and is already under considerable pressure from peat oxidation and other activities. Gas extraction can cause additional subsidence, with potential damage to homes, infrastructure, and nature. In addition, gas extraction often involves fracking, whereby chemicals are injected into the ground under high pressure. This poses risks to groundwater, as it is not known which substances remain in the ground. According to the municipality, this is an unacceptable legacy that future generations should not have to bear.
Akkrum gas field
A large part of the Akkrum gas field is located in the municipality of Opsterland. The municipality wants this field to remain closed and no gas extraction to take place. Together with other Frisian authorities and local residents, Opsterland has previously indicated that the risks are too great to ignore.
Alderman van Opzeeland: "The peat meadow area is vulnerable and already under considerable pressure. Additional subsidence due to gas extraction poses risks to homes, nature, and the living environment of our community. We simply consider those risks too great. That is precisely why it is important to wait for the results of the investigation first. Fryslân must not become the new Groningen."
Sector agreement on onshore gas extraction
The sector agreement on onshore gas extraction was recently finalized. This agreement was concluded between the government and the gas extraction sector. The agreement stipulates that the region will receive 5% of the proceeds from gas extraction.
The municipality of Opsterland, which was not allowed to participate in the negotiations on the agreement, disagrees with this. The municipality remains opposed to gas extraction. If gas extraction does go ahead, the municipality wants 33% of the proceeds to go to the region.
Nij Beets drilling tower
Since 2016, the municipality of Opsterland has not granted a permit for the construction of a drilling rig in Nij Beets. The drilling rig is necessary to carry out test drilling in the area.
Persistent resistance
The municipality of Opsterland will continue to oppose gas extraction in the future. To this end, the municipality will use all available administrative and legal means to protect the interests of the community, nature, and the living environment. The municipality is working together with Frisian authorities, organizations, and residents to achieve this.
