Shell and ExxonMobil both own 50 percent of NAM. Shell had already announced last year that it would place parts of NAM in separate BVs, in anticipation of a sale. The news did not come like a bolt from the blue, Stelpstra admits. “But with this step, a number of things cross my mind,” says the provincial administrator. “Such as the consequences for the jobs and the claims handling around the gas file.”
Stelpstra thus refers to the situation surrounding the gas storage in Norg, where local residents have suffered damage to their homes. In addition, there is also the issue of pumping waste water, a residual product from oil extraction, into the soil near Schoonebeek.
All the more reasons that Stelpstra would like to see NAM stay in Assen, regardless of the new owner. “The company itself has expressed this preference several times. They have traditionally been associated with our province and that has always provided us with a lot of employment.”
Stelpstra first waits until a new party has registered. “Then it is important to sit down as soon as possible.”
The municipality of Assen and VNO-NCW were also asked for a response after the news about the sale of the NAM, but have indicated that they do not want to provide it for the time being.