Essent starts European invitation to tender for the upgrade of the Claus power station

The power company Essent starts the European invitation to tender for a large expansion of the production capacity of the Claus power station in Maasbracht (L). The invitation to tender is started with the placing of a notification wherein candidates to tender are informed about the plans of Essent and are invited to compete for the development and construction of the project. The subject matter of the project is that one of the two units of the power station receives a far-reaching modernization. As a result of this the efficiency is greatly improved up to the level of a new electric power station. At the same time the designed capacity is increased from 640 Megawatts (Mw) to around 960 Mw. With a capacity of 960 Mw, more than 5% of the yearly need for electricity in the Netherlands shall be produced. The total production capacity of the Claus power station shall amount to 1600 Mw after the modernization.

The final decision of Essent on whether or not to go ahead with the upgrade is expected at the end of 2006. With this in mind the Environmental Effect Report and the concept permit shall be lodged with the Province of Limburg in April.

A number of years back a large-scale revision plan was approved that extended the life span of the electric power station to 2015. If the current modernization plan also goes ahead, then the unit can remain in operation up to 2034, as a result of which the guarantee of delivery in the long-term is also improved. The Claus power station is the operational base for 130 Essent-employees. The power station offers indirect employment to around 250 people from suppliers in the region.

The Claus power station in Maasbracht originally went into operation in the period 1977-1978. The power station was officially opened by its name giver, his late Royal Highness Prince Claus. 

Published: 15 March 2006