The world's first major gathering of representatives of communities hosting nuclear facilities will take place in Vienna, Austria, from 26 to 30 May 2025 at the IAEA's International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes. Gerben Dijksterhuis, Mayor of Borsele, Kingdom of the Netherlands, which hosts the country's only operating nuclear power plant, discusses key aspects of stakeholder engagement for nuclear power:
How has stakeholder engagement changed over time?
In the 1960s and 1970s, there were fierce protests and demonstrations against the arrival of the nuclear power plant, but in recent years we have seen almost no demonstrations. Over the years, the plant operator, EPZ, has learned to communicate openly and transparently. This has contributed to a good relationship with the surrounding community, an important element of EPZ's 'licence to operate'. The plant is now seen as a good neighbour.
Borsele organized a unique citizen participation process in 2023 on upcoming large energy projects, including two nuclear power reactors. What prompted you as Mayor, and the local government, to include citizens in the process?
People often have strong opinions either for or against nuclear energy, but the decision about whether new nuclear power plants will be built is ultimately made by the national government. So we've focused on the interests of the local community and asked the question: "If two additional nuclear power reactors are built, what will that mean for our municipality and residents? Under what conditions would we accept such a development?" By having this conversation, we're engaging in a discussion about our shared future and deciding what is needed to keep living, working and enjoying life in our region.
My municipality has over 23 000 residents, so it's not possible to ask everyone personally about their views on these developments. By randomly selecting 100 residents, we thought we would get a fair range of opinions reflecting the views of all residents. This way, we can look at what's coming our way as a community with an open mind, without being too influenced by loud supporters or critics. We also wanted to give a voice to young people, who will live with the impact of new nuclear power plants the longest, and to the 'silent majority' - residents who are generally less likely to speak out in public debates.
Over the course of 5 meetings, these 100 residents came up with 39 conditions under which major developments could take place, ensuring that the environmental impact is properly considered.
We believe that as a local community we should have a voice in projects happening in our area.
What are some of the common concerns local residents have about nuclear energy projects? To what extent are they different from concerns about other large projects?
We are somewhat used to big projects because we live next to a large industrial area and an international seaport. However, there are concerns about the impact of the construction: we see in other countries how long it takes, how large the construction site is, and how many people work there. Residents mainly think about noise, dust and light pollution and an increase in construction traffic. There are also concerns about this development in relation to the landscape we are so proud of here.
Specifically for the nuclear component, people are concerned about the safety of new nuclear power plants and the continuing perception of a lack of a final solution for nuclear waste.
What is the socioeconomic impact of nuclear energy projects on host communities and neighbouring areas, based on the experience of Borsele?
About 400 people work at the existing nuclear power plant, and many more are employed indirectly. If the construction of two new nuclear power reactors goes ahead, thousands of additional workers will be needed for 5 to 15 years. This will not only create jobs in the region but also provide opportunities for local businesses, educational institutions and housing development. It is an opportunity to invest in the future of the region, with innovation and progress at the forefront. It's therefore crucial that, as a government and society, we make timely plans to properly manage these developments. The construction of nuclear power plants affects an entire region, and when new nuclear power reactors are built, cooperation with neighbouring municipalities is essential to prepare for this. This includes planning for housing, infrastructure and education.
In addition to being Mayor of Borsele, you are President of the Group of European Municipalities with Nuclear Facilities (GMF Europe). Why is it important for nuclear host communities to organize in such associations?
Nuclear host communities often face or have faced the same challenges. As a network of host communities in different parts of Europe, GMF allows us to learn from each other and find solutions together. We can help each other by sharing information and lessons learned about how to deal with nuclear initiatives. Together, we can also be a stronger voice that is heard in international politics. I am proud that GMF has been invited several times - including by the IAEA - to contribute to new policy and present our vision to participating countries. Together with mayors in Canada and the United States of America, we have also established the Global Partnership of Municipalities with Nuclear Facilities.
It is equally important to advocate for the position of local communities. They must have a voice in developments that take place in their community.
What is the advice you would give to communities that are newcomers to nuclear?
Take an active role, make sure you are well informed, ask the right questions and ensure that the concerns of your community are heard. This not only helps in understanding the impact of nuclear projects, but also ensures that you can actively contribute to decision making and to the process in a way that is in the interest of your community.
Additionally, it is important to join networks of municipalities. This way, you can jointly influence policy, both nationally and internationally. By working with organizations such as the IAEA, we can ensure that policies take into account the needs of host communities.
Mayor Dijksterhuis accepts the Borsele Conditions. (Photo: Municipality of Borsele, Kingdom of the Netherlands)
