Virya Energy, the energy branch of Colruyt, will build the first Belgian factory for green hydrogen.
In a significant move towards sustainable energy, Virya Energy, HyoffGreen, and Messer have finalized their investment decision for the Hyoffwind project, set to establish Belgium’s first 25MW renewable hydrogen production plant in Zeebrugge.
Slated to begin producing hydrogen in 2026, the plant aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 25,000 tons annually, significantly benefiting the mobility and industrial sectors.
The project unites a consortium that spans the entire energy value chain, with John Cockerill and Besix appointed as EPC partners. Messer, known for its global hydrogen network, will leverage its expertise to support green hydrogen infrastructure, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable practices and decarbonizing industrial processes.
The Flemish government has awarded a 30 million euros subsidy to the project, bolstered by EU recovery funds. Strategically located in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, the Hyoffwind plant will play a pivotal role in the future hydrogen network of North-West Europe, supporting Belgium’s renewable energy economy.
Virya Energy CEO Paul Tummers highlighted the transformative potential of hydrogen, while Messer’s CEO Virginia Esly emphasized the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Flemish minister Jo Brouns praised the project for pioneering hydrogen technology in Flanders, underscoring its importance in the region's energy transition.
