Minister Bihet meets members of the Belgian offshore wind sector
02/12/2025
We were delighted to welcome Minister of Energy Mathieu Bihet to Ostend on 2 December 2025. On the agenda was an exploration of our fascinating and innovative sector through presentations, conversations, and the cherry on top: a trip on Windcat’s Hydrocat 48. All in all, a fascinating encounter we are grateful to have been part of.
In conversation and at sea with Minister Bihet
What’s the state of play in the Belgian offshore wind sector today? During the visit by Minister Bihet, we presented the main challenges to our sector and offered a tour around the offices of C-Power, the very first operational wind farm in the Belgian North Sea. Of course, we allowed time for the Minister to meet our members too.
To round off the event, the Minister — having changed into more suitable gear — paid a visit to Windcat’s Hydrocat 48. This crew transfer vessel (CTV) ferries the teams responsible for maintenance work on wind turbines from the port to the offshore farms every day, powered by a double engine that runs partially on diesel, and partially on hydrogen. All in all, a successful afternoon.
Read more about the hydrogen refuelling station by JERA Nex bp here
“Our Belgian energy policy needs to be built on two pillars: nuclear power on the one hand, and renewable energy on the other. This conversation with the sector about the importance of offshore wind offered a valuable chance to cast our gaze forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for us.”
Mathieu Bihet, Minister of Energy
Offshore wind power is safe, sustainable and affordable
At Belgian Offshore Platform, we are convinced that offshore wind energy is and will remain a ‘no-regret’ solution for Belgium. That’s because the energy offshore wind delivers is locally produced, meaning it contributes to our energy independence, is renewable, meaning it helps us meet our climate objectives, and affordable, thanks to low maintenance costs and two-way Contract for Difference auctions. Triple check!
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