From the field to the energy front: Ukraine asks the Netherlands to transfer equipment from Groningen
6 January 16:08
Ukraine has made an official request to the Netherlands for the transfer of equipment from Europe’s largest gas field, Groningen, which is being gradually decommissioned. The equipment in question can be used to restore Ukraine’s energy and gas infrastructure damaged by Russian attacks.
The information was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and the country’s Enterprise Agency. This was reported by the industry publication ExPro, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
Who initiated the request
The request was initiated by Naftogaz of Ukraine, which is negotiating with Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij (NAM), the operator of the Groningen field and the owner of the relevant equipment.
Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretsky explained that manufacturing new equipment takes a long time, while used but serviceable components can be used much faster – as spare parts or as a basis for new installations.
Why Groningen?
The Groningen field was key to the European gas market, but in 2023 the Netherlands decided to stop production there due to the risk of earthquakes in the region. The dismantling of the infrastructure at the field and other closed facilities frees up a significant amount of equipment that can be reused.
According to Koretsky, Naftogaz engineers have already visited the production sites in Groningen and concluded that this equipment can significantly help Ukraine in restoring the destroyed facilities.
The position of the Netherlands
NAM confirmed that it was positive about Ukraine’s request. At the same time, representatives of the Dutch authorities note that consultations have been ongoing since spring, but details on the volume and timing of possible deliveries are not disclosed for security reasons.
The Netherlands remains one of Ukraine’s key partners in the field of energy renewal. In October 2025, the country pledged €25 million to support energy infrastructure, and the total amount of assistance for the repair of gas and electricity networks since the beginning of the full-scale war has reached €450 million.
