Climate protection and resource recovery at the core
The new plant not only ensures the safe treatment of sewage sludge but also enables the recovery of valuable phosphate, a critical raw material for agriculture and industry.
A model for the future
“Delfzijl is a strategically important site for us, where we combine innovation with industrial integration. With the new fourth line, we demonstrate how safe waste treatment, climate-friendly energy, and resource recovery can go hand in hand. At the same time, Delfzijl serves as an innovation hub: here we are implementing pre-sorting to recover plastics and preparing pilot projects for CO₂ capture. This allows us to make a direct contribution to the Dutch energy transition while sending a signal to all of Europe that circular economy and climate protection can only be achieved with investments in modern facilities. Politics and business must work together—because only strong infrastructure creates the foundation for true climate neutrality,” said Timo Poppe, CEO of the EEW Group.
Regional responsibility and international impact
The significance of this investment is also emphasized locally: “With the new SSI, Delfzijl now operates the most modern facility of its kind. It demonstrates how resource conservation, energy production, and environmental protection can go hand in hand. In doing so, we are creating added value not only for the region but also strengthening the entire EEW Group in its ambition to be a European leader in the circular economy,” explained Wilfred de Jager, Technical Managing Director of EEW Delfzijl.
Long-term commitment to the site
With more than €400 million invested in the further development of the site, EEW underscores its long-term commitment. Delfzijl now operates four facilities with three clear goals: safe disposal, reliable energy, and regional heat supply—making it a flagship project for the Dutch energy transition and for the entire EEW Group.