Nobian has received official approval from the Dutch Ministry of Climate and Green Growth to extend our salt production activities in Zuidwending, Groningen until December 31, 2035.
With this decision, the eight caverns still in use will enter the final phase of their lifespan. The extension of salt extraction at Zuidwending will contribute to a stable transition to new salt extraction locations that are yet to be developed. At the same time, this extension secures a reliable supply of high-purity salt, essential for the chemical industry, including the chemical parks in Delfzijl and Rotterdam. It also ensures the production of essential materials like chlorine and caustic soda, key ingredients in medicines, batteries, LED lighting, and wind turbines.
In recent years, the Cavern Closure Consortium (CCC) has conducted extensive international scientific research into the effects of permanently closing large caverns in the province of Groningen. The results of this research have been incorporated into the extraction plan. In addition to continuing existing salt extraction at Zuidwending, additional research for the preparation of a definitive closure plan for the caverns is part of the permit.