Hundreds of low-intensity earthquakes near the surface of a northern coastal region of the Netherlands have prompted the government to consider scaling back gas extraction, likely by several billion cubic meters a year.
Officials in The Hague face a dilemma: The earthquakes are clearly unacceptable, but the abundant gas field is also a source of cheap, locally produced energy for both the nation and its export partners. The economy minister’s provisional strategy is expected to be revealed this spring. A spokesman for the joint venture managing the field says it will abide by the ministry’s decisions. A definitive cabinet decision is expected by November.