In late 2024, the Board of Directors of Belgian Offshore Platform (BOP) welcomed a new chairman. Mathias Verkest took the helm from François Van Leeuw, whom we sincerely thank for his years of dedication. Our new chairman is looking forward to building the Belgian offshore wind industry and keeping it on the agenda.

Investing in Belgium’s wind energy sector

Mathias has been active in the offshore wind industry since 2009. He was involved in the rollout of the very first and the most recent wind farm in the Belgian North Sea. As CEO of Otary, which currently operates three wind farms, Mathias is motivated to work with BOP to further fuel the engine of Belgium’s offshore wind energy sector and expand its production capacity. Mathias is also co-chair of the Ostend Port User Association, which recognises port city Ostend as an important hub for all currently operational offshore wind farms.

Abundant potential in the Princess Elisabeth Zone

The federal government’s recent decision to allow the production of an additional 3.5 GW of offshore wind energy in the Princess Elisabeth Zone will enable us to almost triple the current capacity. That is enough to provide green power to all Belgian households. The timely development of the grid connection (both onshore and offshore) remains crucial in this regard. A successful rollout requires a robust grid connection within a clear and predictable regulatory framework.

“My ambition for the future is to further strengthen BOP’s mission and maximise Belgian offshore wind energy production. Offshore wind energy is the cornerstone of our energy transition. It is cost-effective, safe and reliable. The rollout of 3.5 GW of additional capacity in the Princess Elisabeth Zone will enable us to supply every Belgian household with locally generated electricity. Our choice today guarantees our future.”

Mathias Verkest, CEO of Otary
Chairman of Belgian Offshore Platform

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