Brussels, 18 February 2025 – BESIX, BESIX Environment and John Cockerill are pleased to announce the start of construction on the Hyoffwind production facility in Zeebrugge, in the presence of Minister-President of Flanders Matthias Diependaele. This milestone project marks a significant step towards a more sustainable energy future.
The Hyoffwind facility is designed to convert renewable electricity from local wind parks into green hydrogen, which will be stored and distributed to support industrial and mobility applications. Strategically located in Zeebrugge, close to offshore wind parks and key industrial partners, the facility will have an initial production capacity of 25 MW, with the potential to scale up to 100 MW in the future. The project is scheduled to produce first hydrogen molecules by mid-2026. Once operational, it will contribute to an annual CO₂ reduction of 25,000 tonnes per year.
Developed by Virya Energy in partnership with HyoffGreen and Messer, Hyoffwind represents a pioneering effort in Belgium’s green energy transition.
Strong Belgian partnership driving execution
BESIX, BESIX Environment, and John Cockerill are leading the engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and start-up of the green hydrogen production plant. BESIX, known for its expertise in complex projects, and John Cockerill, one of the world’s leader in advanced alkaline electrolyser technology solutions, bring together a complementary skillset essential for the project’s success.
Mark Beyst, General Manager BESIX Belgium-Luxembourg, stated: "Hyoffwind stands at the forefront of Europe’s green hydrogen initiatives. BESIX Group, with its extensive experience in complex industrial projects, is proud to contribute to this landmark development. Our expertise in engineering, construction, installation, and commissioning—delivered by BESIX Environment for the electromechanical works and BESIX for the civil and structural works—ensures the success of this project. We are thrilled to move into the execution phase."
Adrien Theunissen, General Manager BESIX Environment, added: "Our past collaborations within BESIX Group and technology partners have proven our ability to execute EPC contracts efficiently from concept design to start-up of installations. For Hyoffwind, the synergy between BESIX, BESIX Environment, John Cockerill, and Virya Energy, along with the determination, strong commitment, and motivation of everyone involved, ensures that this project will set a benchmark in the decarbonisation of our economies."
Raphaël Tilot, CEO of John Cockerill Hydrogen, added: “We’d like to thank Virya Energy and its partners HyoffGreen and Messer for their confidence. John Cockerill is proud to contribute to this landmark pioneer green hydrogen project, the first of its kind in Belgium, with strong partners such as BESIX and BESIX Environment. This groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a new phase that demonstrates the collective will to roll out this energy transition project, which will be equipped with John Cockerill Hydrogen's alkaline electrolysers produced in our European factory. The site is taking shape and all the teams are looking forward to continuing the important work, with the ultimate aim of producing green hydrogen, which will be useful for decarbonising industry and transport.”
The involvement of BESIX, BESIX Environment and John Cockerill underscores their commitment to delivering innovative, high-impact infrastructure. As trusted Belgian partners, their expertise and dedication will help realise the potential of green hydrogen as a key driver of Europe’s energy transition.
