Article

Experts recommend establishing a temporary Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Rotterdam's port and industrial cluster to address delays in energy transition projects. The proposal aims to streamline grid reinforcement and infrastructure development while facilitating industrial decarbonization, which is hindered by permitting and regulatory challenges.

The SEZ would feature a coordinated approach to decision-making, enabling rapid investment decisions and prioritizing projects with significant climate impact. With Rotterdam as a strategic hub for offshore wind, hydrogen transport, and CO₂ storage, the SEZ could mitigate projected GDP losses of up to 5% due to stalled progress. The framework includes an interdepartmental mandate, unified permitting procedures, and budgetary controls to ensure effective implementation and visible progress.