On Tuesday 26 August 2025, Ostend welcomed some distinguished visitors, our Minister for the North Sea and her cabinet. A festive event attended by many members of our Belgian offshore wind farms. The purpose of her visit? To learn about our sector and our mission. And we succeeded with flying colours!

A glance into the future of offshore wind

The offshore wind industry is making successful progress, but also faces some major challenges. Mathias Verkest, chair of the board of directors of the Belgian Offshore Platform, and Bérénice Crabs, our general secretary, presented our sector’s challenges to Minister Verlinden and her cabinet. The key issues presented were:

#1 Renewable energy is beating fossil fuels

Global average electricity costs fell significantly between 2010 and 2024. Offshore wind became as much as 63% cheaper (source: IRENA). Renewable energy not only has lower production costs than fossil fuels, but also offers structural advantages: it strengthens our long-term energy security and contributes to health and sustainability.

#2 The political situation is influencing the energy debate

The war in Ukraine and subsequent energy crisis have changed the energy debate. Sustainability and energy security, affordability and competitiveness are now playing an important role. Nuclear energy is once again coming into play as a possible route by which to meet climate targets and growing demand. Defence is becoming extremely important.

#3 Two-sided CFD’s provide a properly regulated framework for competitive auctions

Uncertainties and a variety of factors are driving up costs: more expensive labour and materials, higher capital costs, greater investment uncertainty, but also insufficient electrification and risky auction models. This is putting a strain on the commercial viability of projects and reducing investor confidence. A clear, fixed network connection continues to be the basis for the success of a competitive auction.

Discussing offshore wind with Minister Verlinden

Notwithstanding the challenges, we at the Belgian Offshore Platform are convinced that offshore wind energy is and will remain a ‘no regret’ option for Belgium. Our wind farms in the North Sea shore up our energy security, boost the economy and are propelling our country toward a greener future. Following our presentation, all those present were given the opportunity to talk to the Minister and her cabinet. It was a fascinating evening!

‘Belgium is one of the leaders in offshore wind energy. I think it is important to talk to the sector and hear about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This meeting was a valuable opportunity to exchange thoughts on current developments.’ – Annelies Verlinden, Minister for the North Sea