Zeeland Energy Terminal (ZET)

Strengthening energy security with flexible LNG import capacity for the Netherlands and Europe.

About Zeeland Energy Terminal
Map Zeeland Energy Terminal

Open season

VTTI and Höegh Evi have launched an expression of interest as a first step in the open season for Zeeland Energy Terminal (ZET) to engage with the market on future LNG import capacity. The expression of interest phase is an opportunity for energy producers, industrial users and other market participants to express interest that will help shape the terminal’s commercial and technical configuration as the project progresses.

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Why this project?

The Netherlands still requires natural gas, as the transition to sustainable energy takes time and natural gas complements renewables due to its flexibility to produce power. With increasing geopolitical tensions, the country has become more dependent on imported gas and in particular LNG. This new import terminal in Zeeland will receive and convert LNG into natural gas, helping to ensure a stable and affordable energy supply.

Currently, the Netherlands has two LNG import terminals – one at the Maasvlakte in Rotterdam and one in Eemshaven, Groningen – operated by different companies. Zeeland Energy Terminal will be the first privately operated LNG import terminal in the Netherlands. By developing a new LNG import terminal in the harbour of Vlissingen-Oost, Zeeland, VTTI and Höegh Evi aim to diversify energy supply methods, improve energy security and competition. This project meets today’s energy needs while laying groundwork for a sustainable energy future.

Q&A

What are the benefits of using an Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) for Zeeland Energy Terminal?

  • The FSRU is flexible: if LNG is no longer needed, the FSRU can be deployed elsewhere.
  • It requires minimal land space and can be built faster, with lower impact on the environment compared to a land-based terminal.

What are the next steps for the project?

The government will take a project decision for this project. Within the procedure for a project decision, residents and businesses are involved in the process. Once approved, the terminal could become operational in Q4 2029.

Who are the key stakeholders involved in the project?

  • Coordinating authority: The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth (KGG), together with the Ministry of Housing and Spatial Planning (VRO).
  • Other authorities involved: Rijkswaterstaat, the Province of Zeeland, municipalities, and the Water Board.
  • Environmental assessment: The Environmental Impact Assessment Commission (Commissie MER) will review the environmental effects.
  • Support: The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) assists with coordination and communication.
  • Project developers: VTTI and Höegh Evi

What does the permitting procedure involve?

The procedure consists of two phases:

  1. Exploration: Research into possible locations and environmental impacts.
  2. Plan elaboration: Selection of the final location and further detailing of the plans.

How can the public participate in the permitting process?

There will be several opportunities for stakeholders and the public to provide input during the permitting process. The Ministry has published a notice of intent and a draft participation plan. Feedback can be submitted via the Ministry website.

Public participation opportunities

The public can respond at the following times:

  • 12 December 2025 to 22 January 2026: Feedback on the draft Scope and Level of Detail (concept Notitie Reikwijdte en Detailniveau) and initial environmental studies.
  • 2026: Feedback on the draft permit decision.

The goal of this process is to secure the Netherlands’ energy supply while considering environmental concerns and actively involving society in decision-making.

What is the participation plan?

The participation plan explains how the initiators (VTTI and Höegh Evi) intend to involve stakeholders in the decision-making process for the construction of the new terminal. The goal is to gather input so that the project better aligns with the interests and concerns of residents and other stakeholders.

Who is involved?

Everyone with an interest in the project, such as:

  • Local residents
  • Businesses in the surrounding area
  • Social organizations (including environmental groups)
  • Government agencies, including Rijkswaterstaat, the Province of Zeeland, and municipalities

Why is public participation important?

The construction and operation of the terminal will have an impact on the surrounding area. By participating, concerns and ideas can be incorporated into the plans, helping to ensure the project is carried out more carefully and effectively.