For now, the province of Overijssel no longer allows the construction of large solar parks on agricultural land, among other things. According to the Provincial Executive, the goal for solar energy generation in the province has already been reached. In the coalition agreement, BBB, VVD, GroenLinks, PvdA and SGP had already stipulated that they no longer want large fields of solar panels on agricultural land, and this is now being put into practice.
"Here stands a happy and satisfied group chairman of the BBB," said Carla Evers on behalf of the largest party in the Overijssel States. "We find it very important to make the energy transition in a way that suits Overijssel, with respect for our beautiful landscape and while preserving agricultural land. Because if one thing is scarce, it is land."
Overijssel's goal is to generate 3.3 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity via solar and wind by 2030. Of this, 40 percent must be done via solar panels on roofs and on the ground and 60 percent via wind turbines. In terms of generation via solar, that goal is just about met. The province includes projects that are "in the pipeline and in all likelihood will be realized."
Preparation decision
To effectively curb the construction of new solar parks on land, Overijssel must amend its environmental ordinance. This will be done in the coming months, in consultation with municipalities, residents and the States. To prevent municipalities or entrepreneurs from applying for permits for solar parks in the run-up to a final decision, the province has taken a so-called preparatory decision. This means that no permits will be issued for the next six months until the environmental ordinance is amended. According to Deputy Liesbeth Grijsen (BBB, spatial planning), this "pushes the pause button."
This preparatory decision was prepared in secret in recent weeks. State members could see the documents, but they were subject to secrecy. In this way, the college wanted to prevent quick permit applications.
On Wednesday, that secrecy was lifted. Except for D66, all parties in the States subsequently voted in favor of the preparatory decision, although the opposition was critical of the course of events. They feel it does not fit with the "new style of government" that the college, led by BBB, wants to adopt. "This does not deserve the beauty prize," said CDA party chairman Rick Brink. According to Grijsen, it was a "difficult dilemma," but the college felt this was the best way.
