Growing economy
Offshore wind as the driver behind Belgian economic growth
Offshore wind power is so much more than a sustainable source of energy alone. Over the course of just a few years, it has developed into a powerful driver of economic growth, innovation and the job market in Belgium. From jobs and investment to affordable electricity and export opportunities: our Belgian offshore wind sector is delivering tangible benefits for our economy, both today and for the future. Read more about the industrial value chain of our wind sector.
More jobs, greater added value and greater prosperity
In just a short time, the Belgian offshore wind sector has developed into a high-value new industrial sector with a positive impact on the Belgian economy:
- The sector offers jobs to 11,000 employees (BE-WISE, 2026).
- The sector generates an operational profit of €1.4 billion (BE-WISE, 2026).
- Each offshore wind turbine contributes €45 million to the economy (WindEurope).
What’s more, there’s huge untapped potential for growth. If we can roll out the Princess Elisabeth Zone on schedule:
- we can create a further 10,000 jobs (Climact, 2021)
- the sector will be able to contribute €1.5 billion to our GDP (Climact, 2021)
This translates into greater prosperity, a stronger industrial sector and more economic resilience.
Greater cost efficiency and affordable electricity
Aside from economic growth, offshore wind also provides affordable energy. The cost of wind power has dropped dramatically over the past few years. International cost analyses show that renewable energy is often the cheapest option for new electricity production projects (IRENA: Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2024).
- Offshore wind boasts an extremely low levelised cost of electricity (LCOE), especially when compared with fossil fuels (Fraunhofer).
- Even when grid, storage and backup costs are thrown into the mix, an energy system based on renewable energy remains the cheapest solution (Fraunhofer).
- An energy system with offshore wind as a central pillar is the most cost-efficient choice. It helps Europe save €1.6 trillion when compared with a slower energy transition scenario where our climate-neutral by 2050 target would not be met.
Greater competitiveness thanks to a strong supply chain
Offshore wind power is not only essential to our energy supply — it also acts as a major driver of economic growth and competitiveness. Belgium and Europe play a remarkably strong role in this thanks to our well-developed domestic supply chain in the offshore wind sector:
- Our Belgian businesses are active around the globe and are top players in offshore construction, installation and maintenance.
- The European Union is a net exporter of wind turbines, generators and other offshore components (BE-WISE & Ghent University).
This international presence strengthens our economic position, fosters knowledge development and innovation, and improves our trade balance.
Belgian expertise as an international asset
Over the past few years, Belgium has developed into a force to be reckoned with in offshore wind. Our main strengths include in-depth expertise in offshore construction and maritime operations, strategically located ports and logistical hubs, as well as our cluster of experienced developers, investors and suppliers.
These are all major building blocks for a more energy-independent Belgium. Thanks to our strong offshore wind industry, we can focus our efforts on continuing to build a self-sufficient, local electricity production system, bring more stability to energy prices, and scale down our dependence on expensive energy imports.
Keen to find out more about the other benefits of offshore wind power?