Offshore sector calls for clarity on new wind tender
Offshore wind has become a strategic pillar of Belgium’s energy transition and of its industrial development. However, according to the sector, progress risks stalling if a decision on the new offshore wind tender in the Princess Elisabeth Zone continues to be delayed. During the Belgian Offshore Days, the sector issued a clear call for action.
Offshore wind as a strategic asset
Belgium currently has 2,262 MW of offshore wind capacity, accounting for around ten percent of national electricity consumption. Offshore wind strengthens the country’s energy independence and is at the same time one of the most cost-efficient renewable energy sources.
The sector also has a strong industrial impact. Over the past years, an extensive value chain has developed around offshore wind, including innovative companies, technological expertise and high-quality jobs.
Need for a clear policy framework
During the Belgian Offshore Days, Agoria, Blue Cluster, Belgian Offshore Cluster, Belgian Offshore Platform and Sirris/OWI-Lab called on the federal government to provide swift clarity on the first tender in the Princess Elisabeth Zone (PEZ1).
According to the sector, investment certainty is essential to enable further growth. If new projects do not materialise, companies could face a lack of new assignments between 2026 and 2028, with possible consequences for employment, innovation and international competitiveness.
A strong home market remains crucial
The call fits within a broader European ambition. Several North Sea countries recently agreed to aim for 300 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2050. Offshore wind is seen as a key technology for both energy security and industrial development.
The six organisations stress that a strong home market remains essential to further develop Belgian expertise and market it internationally. The Belgian Offshore Days, the sector’s annual meeting point in Belgium, therefore provided the ideal platform to underline this message.
