At Hyoffwind in Zeebruges, BESIX and BESIX Environment have recently reached an important milestone with the installation of the electrolysers and compressors. This step marks a significant move forward towards large‑scale hydrogen production of the facility. Hyoffwind will convert offshore wind energy into hydrogen and is developed by Virya Energy (part of Colruyt Group), Messer and HyoffGreen. BESIX, BESIX Environment and John Cockerill jointly manage the design, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and start‑up of this technically complex facility.
A major step forward on site
The installation of the electrolysers and compressors - the core equipment needed to produce and compress hydrogen - required careful preparation and close coordination. Each electrolyser weighs around 60 tonnes and was installed using a 230‑tonne crane and a self‑driven transport robot. The compressors were positioned inside the building using a self‑propelled modular transporter (SPMT). These operations were prepared in detail by the BESIX and BESIX Environment teams, in close collaboration with specialised partners, and were carried out safely and efficiently.
One-stop shop
Hyoffwind, delivered as a full design‑and‑build project, illustrates BESIX’s integrated “one‑stop shop” approach. BESIX is responsible for the civil and structural works, including foundations by Franki Foundations, buildings, concrete structures and equipment integration platforms. BESIX Environment delivers the electromechanical, piping and utilities packages, covering the design, procurement, installation and commissioning of the Balance of Plant systems and Building Management Systems.
Hydrogen production from 2026
Once operational, the facility will have an initial capacity of 25 MW, scalable up to 100 MW, and will produce up to 3,700 tonnes of hydrogen per year. From 2026 onwards, the first hydrogen molecules will support Colruyt Group’s mobility, public hydrogen refuelling stations and will serve industrial users. This milestone highlights the strong collaboration between all project teams and our shared commitment to delivering complex energy infrastructure that supports the energy transition. Well done to the BESIX and BESIX Environment teams for this important achievement!
Discover Hyoffwind in the video below: