Construction of the Belgian energy island, Princess Elisabeth Island, is set to commence early next year, following the approval of the environmental permit by North Sea Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne.
A consortium comprising Belgian marine construction companies DEME and Jan De Nul has already initiated preparations for building the concrete foundations (caissons) in Vlissingen (North Sea Port). Simultaneously, Elia is finalising a nature-inclusive design for the island, which will be submitted later this year. Collaborating with external experts, the design underwent a thorough examination to identify adjustments and additions aimed at enhancing biodiversity on and around the island. Princess Elisabeth Island, located 45 km off the coast, will serve as an energy hub, connecting new offshore wind farms and additional interconnectors (to the UK and Denmark) to Belgium's onshore power grid. The construction timeline is estimated to span approximately two years, from March 2024 to August 2026.
