Overview
Belwind Phase 1 is an operational onshore wind farm in Belgium with a capacity of 171 MW, contributing to the country's renewable energy goals under the EU Renewable Energy Directive.
Belwind Phase 1 is an onshore wind farm located offshore near the Belgian coast, with coordinates 51.66°N, 2.80°E. It has an installed capacity of 171 MW, making it a medium-to-large scale facility within the Belgian wind energy sector. The plant is operational and plays a key role in the country's renewable energy portfolio. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the EU Renewable Energy Directive III (2023/2413), which sets a binding target of 42.5% renewable energy by 2030 for member states. Belgium supports wind energy through federal and regional feed-in premiums and grid connection guarantees. The 171 MW capacity places Belwind Phase 1 among the larger onshore wind farms in the region, utilizing modern wind turbine technology to harness consistent North Sea winds. Environmentally, the wind farm contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. Its offshore location minimizes visual and noise impacts on populated areas, though it may affect local marine bird populations. The facility supports Belgium's transition to a low-carbon energy system and helps meet national renewable energy targets.
Environmental context
The wind farm is located in the North Sea, an area with strong and consistent wind resources ideal for renewable energy generation. The offshore environment reduces land-use conflicts and visual impact compared to onshore installations. However, the turbines may pose risks to seabirds and bats through collision and habitat displacement. The facility's operation aligns with Belgium's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy capacity under EU directives.
Frequently asked questions
Belwind Phase 1 is located offshore in the North Sea, near the Belgian coast at coordinates 51.66°N, 2.80°E.
Belwind Phase 1 has an installed capacity of 171 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large scale wind farm in Belgium.
The operator of Belwind Phase 1 is not publicly listed, but the facility is part of Belgium's offshore wind portfolio managed by energy companies under federal concessions.
Belwind Phase 1 operates under the EU Renewable Energy Directive III, which mandates a 42.5% renewable energy share by 2030, and Belgian federal support mechanisms including feed-in premiums and grid connection guarantees.
By generating clean electricity from wind, Belwind Phase 1 reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions, supporting Belgium's climate goals.