Pipeline Zeebrugge - Evergem
Why this infrastructure?
This project forms the second phase of the overarching Zeebrugge–Opwijk pipeline project. Find out more about the first phase: the Desteldonk–Opwijk project.
Fluxys is a key pioneer in the energy transition in Belgium. Partly because of the war in Ukraine, Europe wants to transition rapidly to sources other than Russian natural gas. That's why Fluxys is preparing for the construction of a pipeline between Zeebrugge and Evergem. The missing link in the Belgian gas network is a future-oriented solution to ensure that there is a continuous energy supply to Belgium and neighbouring countries.
Building this pipeline is also an important step in implementing Belgium's federal hydrogen strategy and the Flemish hydrogen vision (or Flemish hydrogen policy strategy), which aim to make our country a European hydrogen hub. We are constructing this pipeline to be ready for carrying the molecules of the future. This means that we can eventually switch it over to hydrogen so that suppliers can get this carbon-neutral energy carrier onto the market. Find out more about how we are building hydrogen and CO₂ infrastructure for Belgium.
We will start work on constructing this strategic pipeline as soon as the necessary permits have been issued. Fluxys assumes phased implementation. For the section between Knokke-Heist and Evergem, via Lievegem, the works are scheduled for 2025 and 2026. For the section between Zeebrugge and Knokke-Heist, the works are expected to start in 2031.
Facts and figures
- The pipeline will run through Zeebrugge, Bruges, Knokke–Heist, Damme, Maldegem, Lievegem and Evergem.
- Length of Zeebrugge–Evergem pipeline: 53 km
- Diameter: 1,000 mm
Consultation
Landowners and operators have their own point of contact at Fluxys, from the preliminary study phase of the project through to the restoration of the site following the construction of the pipeline. This allows them to consult with someone familiar with their concerns and the features of their land from the outset.
| When? | With whom? | On what? |
|---|---|---|
| From February 2023 |
Landowners and operators | Identification of and initial contact with the parties concerned |
| From September 2023 | Landowners and operators | Information sessions presenting the project – the local residents concerned receive a personal invitation |
| After the start of the Declaration of Public Utility procedure (December 2023/January 2024) | Landowners | Conclusion of easement agreements with the owners of land crossed by the pipeline |
| Before opening up the working strip (early 2025) | Operators | Production of a joint site description |
| Once the trench has been dug | Operators | Description of presence and condition of drainage |
| After the restoration of drainage | Operators | Confirmation of restoration of the drainage |
| After the restoration of the site(s) | Operators | Site acceptance document + joint estimate of damage and payment of compensation |
Information sessions
You can download the presentations from the various information sessions here:
Permit procedures
| Permit procedure | Public consultation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Declaration of Public Utility | Delivered on 22/07/2024 | |
| Transmission permit | Delivered on 19/11/2024 | |
| Environmental permit for pipeline section Zeebrugge-Lievegem |
Aalter Brugge & Damme Knokke-Heist Lievegem Maldegem |
from 22/10/2024 to 20/11/2024 from 25/10/2024 to 23/11/2024 from 20/10/2024 to 18/11/2024 from 24/10/2024 to 20/11/2024 from 23/10/2024 to 21/11/2024 |
| Environmental permit for pipeline section Lievegem-Evergem |
Lievegem & Evergem | from 28/10/2024 to 26/11/2024 |
Information sessions
You can download the presentations as part of the application for an environmental permit:
- For any questions or more information, contact Fluxys!