Homeowners near Ventilus power line offered compensation and buyout option

Grid operator Elia will compensate homeowners affected by the Ventilus high-voltage power line in West Flanders, with some given the option to sell their properties. The cost of the compensation scheme will be covered through electricity tariffs.

Around 500 homeowners living within 200m of the planned 380kV power line will receive compensation for property value loss, while 120 will have the option to sell their homes to Elia. An independent expert will determine property values for those opting to sell. 

The project, a priority for the new Flemish government, aims to strengthen Belgium’s electricity network by connecting offshore wind farms to the mainland.

Opposition from residents

The 82km line, which includes a 10km underground section, has faced strong opposition. Many residents and local authorities had pushed for a fully underground alternative due to health concerns. However, expert studies concluded that an overhead line was the only viable option. 

To address public concerns, Elia has introduced additional measures, including green buffer zones to reduce the visual impact and a community fund for affected areas.

Meanwhile, the project’s approval process is moving forward. Elia submitted an environmental impact report to the Flemish government last month. The final report and permit application are expected before the summer, followed by a public consultation. If approved, construction could start in 2026, with the line becoming operational by 2029. 

Ambitious timeline

However, legal challenges remain. Several municipalities in West Flanders have filed 25 appeals against the proposed route with the Council of State, five of which have already been rejected. Elia acknowledges that the project timeline is ambitious and may need adjustments depending on the court’s rulings.

The cost of the project remains uncertain. An earlier estimate of 1.6 billion euros, made three years ago, covered both Ventilus and the Boucle du Hainaut energy infrastructure project, but Elia has warned that costs will likely be higher due to changing economic conditions.

^{#FlandersNewsService | The Ventilus project has faced opposition from local authorities and residents © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}