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Dutch Senate holds off decision on Groningen gas field shutdown

The Dutch Senate has held off a vote on a law that would permanently close the Groningen gas field in the north of the Netherlands, as a. majority required more assurances on the country's energy. security.

Typical gas production at Groningen ended last October after. years of production cuts to limit seismic risks in the area.

The gas field has actually been available for minimal production. throughout a cold wave in recent months, however the government has. proposed a law that would close the field entirely by Oct. 1.

That law was backed by the Lower House of parliament last. month, but numerous Senate portions on Tuesday said they needed. more warranties that the law would not jeopardise the security. of the country's gas supply.

Amongst those asking to hold off the vote were three of the. four celebrations that are currently attempting to form a brand-new government,. including the nationalist PVV celebration that won the November 2023. election and the centre right VVD of outgoing Prime Minister. Mark Rutte.

Without the law, gas production could in theory be. resumed and Lower Home legislators on Wednesday stated they feared. a considerable hold-up and continuous uncertainty for individuals living. in the area.

Rutte's caretaker government, in charge up until a new. government is formed, has repeatedly stated it will not resume gas. production at Groningen under any scenario.

VVD legislator Silvio Erkens on Wednesday likewise stated the. choice to end gas production would not be reassessed.

However the Senate can ask for more information,. he included.

(source: Reuters)