The ‘IJmond Factor’: the strategic importance of the ports for the economy and the energy transition

Decisio regularly conducts research into the economic impact, sustainability and spatial use of port areas. Time and again, these studies show that the economic significance of port related activity in terms of turnover, exports and employment is substantial. This also applies indirectly, through the many supplying companies involved. The picture that emerges is one of smart, innovative entrepreneurs who are global frontrunners. A recent impact analysis carried out by Decisio for Zeehaven IJmuiden N.V. shows that the IJmond port clusters food, energy, leisure and materials together generate €2.4 billion in added value and 25,300 jobs. Indirectly, a further 11,000 people in the region and elsewhere in the Netherlands owe their jobs to port related activity in the IJmond.

The IJmuiden ports, with the IJmondhaven in the foreground

Major and growing importance of the ports for the energy transition

The ports in the IJmond play a key role in the energy transition, as the construction and maintenance of offshore wind farms in the North Sea are coordinated from here. The IJmond is favourably located in relation to both existing and planned offshore wind zones. Based on the plans as they stood even before the Rutte IV coalition agreement, around 70 per cent of offshore wind capacity in 2030 will be generated by wind farms off the coast of IJmuiden. This corresponds to 31.9 TWh, enough to supply electricity to nine million households. The projected generation in 2030 off the IJmuiden coast is equivalent to 30 per cent of total electricity consumption in the Netherlands (2018). The CO₂ reduction achieved by offshore wind farms off IJmuiden amounted to 0.9 megaton in 2018, rising to 20 megatons in 2030.

The task ahead

The Decisio report concludes with advice to businesses and government on how to safeguard the added value of the ports. This requires sufficient physical and environmental space, as well as stronger coordination and collaboration in the management and development of the ports. Finally, there is a significant challenge in reducing the negative impacts of the port‑industrial complex on climate and public health, in order to maintain its licence to operate.