Nobian has received official approval from the Dutch Ministry of Climate and Green Growth to extend our salt mining activities in Zuidwending, Groningen until 2035. 

This decision follows a careful evaluation of submitted statements of opinion and advice from TNO-AGE, the State Supervision of Mines (SodM), the Mining Council, and local authorities. Based on these assessments, the ministry concluded that salt mining in Heiligerlee can continue safely and responsibly.

Extension contributes to security of supply

Extending salt extraction in Heiligerlee will contribute to a stable transition to new salt mining locations that have yet to be developed. Additionally, this continuity ensures that Nobian can continue supplying high-purity salt to the chemical parks in Delfzijl and Rotterdam after 2025 for producing chlorine, caustic soda, and other substances. These substances are essential for producing medicines, batteries, LED lighting, and components for sustainable energy solutions, such as wind turbines.

Extra research

In addition to the extension, additional permit conditions have been included. Nobian will conduct additional studies on the closure of caverns and updating long-term soil subsidence forecasts. These studies will contribute to the responsible and sustainable continuation of our activities.

Read the full announcement here (in Dutch).