Belgium’s ambitious Princess Elisabeth offshore energy hub project achieved a significant milestone with the ceremonial first steel cut for its high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) infrastructure at HSM Offshore Energy’s shipyard in Schiedam, Netherlands. This critical phase of construction will see the fabrication of specialised modules that will form the backbone of Belgium’s first artificial energy island, located 45 km off the coast. The artificial island will serve as a key connection point for transporting at least 2.1 GW of offshore wind energy generated in the Princess Elisabeth Zone to the mainland.
The HVAC substations will house essential components such as power transformers and gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), so forming the backbone of the island’s AC transmission infrastructure. The modules are being built by HSI Pemac, a Belgian-Dutch consortium comprising HSM Offshore Energy, Smulders, and Iv. The consortium was awarded the engineering, procurement, construction, installation and commissioning (EPCIC) contract by Elia, Belgium’s national transmission system operator, which is part of Elia Group. Engineering works, including the layout and a detailed 3D model, are being carried out at Iv’s offices in Papendrecht (NL). The prefabrication process is taking place at Smulders’ Belgian facilities and HSM’s Schiedam yard, with the final assembly occurring in Schiedam and Vlissingen.
“This first steel cut is more than the start of fabrication — it is a tangible sign that one of the most strategic energy projects in Europe is moving from plan to reality. We are proud to help bring this essential infrastructure to life, so supporting the growth of offshore wind and the strengthening of European energy security.” – Hans Leerdam, Commercial Director at HSM Offshore Energy
“The start of the construction of the island’s HVAC infrastructure shows that the project is progressing steadily— even as we adapt its next phase in line with new market realities. The Belgian government’s recent decision to develop an alternative approach for the HVDC components will ensure that we can maintain the strategic ambition of the project in a more cost-effective way. Along with our partners and the authorities, Elia remains fully committed to delivering Belgium’s offshore energy hub that will strengthen our country’s future electricity supply and support Europe’s energy transition.” – Frederic Dunon, CEO of Elia Transmission Belgium
About the Princess Elisabeth offshore energy hub
Princess Elisabeth offshore energy hub will be the world’s first artificial energy island. As part of its first phase of operation, it will collect electricity from two new wind farms located in Belgium’s second offshore wind zone and so enable the integration of this energy into the country’s onshore grid. The island will strengthen Belgium’s long-term electricity supply and accelerate the integration of renewable energy into the European grid.
About HSI Pemac
HSI Pemac is a joint venture between HSM Offshore Energy, Smulders, and Iv, combining decades of experience in offshore energy infrastructure, complex steel constructions, and engineering excellence. The consortium brings together complementary strengths to deliver the Princess Elisabeth offshore energy hub safely, on time, and with the highest standards of quality and innovation.
About Elia Group
Elia Group is a key player in electricity transmission. We ensure that production and consumption are balanced around the clock, supplying 30 million end users with electricity. Through our subsidiaries in Belgium (Elia) and the north and east of Germany (50Hertz), we operate 19,741 km of high-voltage connections, meaning that we are one of Europe’s top 5 transmission system operators. With a reliability level of 99.99%, we provide society with a robust power grid, which is important for socioeconomic prosperity. We also aspire to be a catalyst for a successful energy transition, helping to establish a reliable, sustainable and affordable energy system.
