Nuclear in the Netherlands

Nuclear applications contribute in many ways to the health, development and safety of people and the environment worldwide. Innovation is in full swing within the nuclear sector. Nuclear technology is causing revolutionary breakthroughs internationally in science, medicine, space travel and much more.

Nuclear technology is very important to our health. The use of radioactivity and radiation in the treatment of various cancers increases survival rates. Medical isotopes and are also used in pain management and diagnosis.

Radioactivity is everywhere. Our earth and also our own bodies contain radioactive substances, which emit radiation. Everyone is constantly exposed to natural sources of radiation. But we also use it in making electricity, diagnosing and treating diseases, or checking welds for steel structures such as windmills, for example. Even nuclear reactors are even used for restoring old paintings. Nuclear is indispensable to the environment and to society.

When it comes to nuclear and energy, most people immediately think of nuclear energy from uranium. That is certainly an important part, but nuclear science is also used in other innovative forms of energy such as nuclear fusion, thorium reactors or, for example, fast breeder reactors. All contribute to a future with carbon-neutral electricity.

We are following developments surrounding Ukraine’s nuclear facilities with concern. Ukraine relies heavily on nuclear power; 15 reactors account for 50 percent of all electricity. Since the conflict began, the number of operated units has changed over time, with reactors being put online and taken offline depending on the situation around the plants and the stability of the external power supply. The Zaporizja Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) is the country’s largest nuclear power plant with six reactors.