Belgium is setting its sights on an ambitious goal: to become a climate-neutral energy hub by 2050. This vision takes center stage in the form of the Hydrogen Import Coalition, a consortium of industry leaders including DEME, Engie, Exmar, Fluxys, Port of Antwerp-Bruges, and WaterstofNet. Together, they are not just dreaming big but strategizing with meticulous detail.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges, already a vital energy hub, will play a pivotal role in this green energy revolution. The rationale behind this vision is rooted in the understanding that local production of renewable energy alone will not suffice to meet Belgium’s and Western Europe’s lofty climate neutrality goals. Belgium is turning its gaze towards the import of hydrogen and its carriers, such as ammonia. These will be sourced from countries with an abundant supply of green electricity generated from solar and wind energy. Nations like Chile, Oman, Namibia, Canada, and Brazil offer the promise of a sustainable and reliable energy source.

To realize this vision, the Hydrogen Import Coalition, comprising DEME, Engie, Exmar, Fluxys, and WaterstofNet, united their strengths in 2019. Their focus is clear: to translate the vision into tangible projects for the production, transportation, and storage of hydrogen. In doing so, they aim to bolster Belgium’s position as a global leader in sustainable energy.

The recently unveiled roadmap from the Hydrogen Import Coalition represents the fruit of extensive collaboration among the coalition partners and dialogues with various stakeholders. It’s a comprehensive guide that offers insights into potential scenarios for hydrogen import and the accompanying infrastructure development. Equally important, the roadmap spells out the immediate actions and measures required over the coming years to breathe life into this audacious vision.

The Hydrogen Import Coalition wants to underscore that these collective endeavors have far-reaching implications. They extend beyond Belgium’s borders, enhancing the country’s position in the global energy market. More significantly, they will play an integral role in helping achieve climate goals and fostering sustainable development on a global scale. This roadmap serves as a sturdy foundation for further cooperation and concerted action. Together, the coalition members are taking resolute steps towards a greener, more sustainable future—for Belgium and for the world.

For a detailed look at the roadmap or to gain deeper insights, you can explore the full document or watch the webinar from October 2, 2023, where this transformative roadmap was presented.

Belgium is on a mission, and the world is watching. The vision to become a climate-neutral energy hub is not just a dream but a well-thought-out strategy backed by industry leaders committed to making it a reality. The hydrogen import vision is, in essence, a blueprint for a greener future, and Belgium is leading the way.