European Commission approves 682m euro Belgian support scheme for offshore wind farm

The European Commission has approved the Belgian support mechanism of 682 million euros for the first 700 MW wind farm in the Princess Elisabeth Zone, in the North Sea off the Belgian coast. This paves the way for the auction of the wind farm, which should be launched on 28 October.

The measure will support the construction and operation of the first offshore wind farm in the Princess Elisabeth Zone. The wind farm is expected to have a capacity of 700 MW and to generate at least 2.6 TWh of renewable electricity per year.

“It will help Belgium reduce its dependence on Russian fossil fuels,” said Margrethe Vestager, executive vice-president in charge of competition policy. “At the same time, it ensures that any potential competition distortions are kept to the minimum.”

The approval of Belgium's state aid mechanism paves the way for the auction of the wind farm, which is expected to be operational by the end of 2028. The auction is due to be launched on 28 October.

For the first time, citizen participation will be a mandatory criterion for an offshore wind tender.

“By involving citizens in renewable energy communities, we ensure that they directly benefit from investment returns,” said Energy minister Tinne Van der Straeten. “This makes our energy transition fairer, more inclusive, and more sustainable.” In addition, a maximum strike price cap of 95 euros per MWh will be enforced.

^{Wind turbines in a wind farm off the Belgian coast © PHOTO KENZO TRIBOUILLARD / AFP}