The government makes the first move towards the BMD

Background information is given to the Nota Energiebeleid (Netherlands Note on Energy Policy), published in three parts between September 1979 and July 1980. The consumption of electricity since 1960 is considered and a forecast of the expected usage in 1990 and 2000 given, on the basis of two energy scenarios. The government considers that three nuclear centres need to be built and suggests one of 1000 MWe in Borssele and another of 2000 MWe in the Noordoostpolderdijk. The irradiation burden on the community, reactor safety figures and the disposal and storage of radioactive waste are considered. The suggestion to instal these three centres will become the subject for verification and trial during the Broad Social Discussion (BMD), expected to begin at the end of 1980. Following this a definite decision can be made by government and parliament at the beginning of 1984. (C.F.)