Zeebrugge hydrogen plant gets final go-ahead
A final investment decision has been made to build a hydrogen plant in Zeebrugge, the companies behind the project announced on Thursday. Municipalities are also involved in the project.
The 25MW renewable hydrogen plant is a project of Virya Energy, the family behind the Colruyt supermarket chain, Messer, an industrial gas specialist, and Hyoffgreen, a collaboration between Flemish Energy Holding and automation company Z-Kracht.
The final investment decision was the last step before construction of the plant can begin. The first hydrogen molecules are expected to be produced in 2026 and will initially be transported by road. From 2030, when the entire hydrogen network is in place, the molecules will be pumped into the pipeline network.
The hydrogen - produced by electrolysis of water - will be used for mobility such as heavy transport and barges, and as a feedstock for industrial customers. The electrolysis will be carried out using electricity generated by solar panels and wind turbines.
Up to 100MW
Initially, Fluxys was also involved in the project, but the Belgian gas network operator withdrew from the project. Fluxys' role in the project was taken over by Messer and Hyoffgreen. The latter is a joint venture between Flemish Energy Holding and Z-Kracht, both owned by Flemish municipalities.
The three parties are involved in the investment project in a "balanced" way, says Stephan Windels, head of hydrogen operations at Virya Energy. The investment amounts to 80 million euros. The capacity of the plant - the first of its kind in Flanders - can be increased from 25 to 100MW in the future.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO JONAS D'HOLLANDER
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