Hyoffwind reaches key milestone: installation of the electrolysers and compressors

Developed by Virya Energy, Messer and HyoffGreen, with BESIX, BESIX Environment and John Cockerill as EPC partners, Hyoffwind will convert offshore wind energy into hydrogen, supporting low carbon mobility, accelerating industrial decarbonisation and enhancing Belgium’s energy independence. BESIX, BESIX Environment and John Cockerill jointly manage the design, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and start‑up of this technically complex installation.

The project recently reached a significant milestone with the installation of its first electrolysers and compressors - the core equipment required to produce and compress hydrogen. Each electrolyser weighs approximately 60 tonnes, requiring the use of a 230-tonne crane and a self-driven transport robot to position the units precisely inside the building. The compressors were transported from the site entrance to their final location using a self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT). These operations demanded detailed planning and a carefully coordinated installation methodology. BESIX and BESIX Environment prepared every step in close collaboration with specialised partners, ensuring that operations were executed smoothly and in full compliance with the highest safety standards

Hyoffwind is delivered as a full design and build project, bringing together the complementary expertise of BESIX and BESIX Environment and reflecting BESIX’s one-stop shop approach. BESIX is responsible for the civil and structural works, including foundations (executed by Franki Foundations), buildings, concrete structures and equipment integration platforms. BESIX Environment delivers the electromechanical, piping and utilities packages. Its scope includes the design, procurement, installation and commissioning of all Balance of Plant systems, Building Management Systems and free issued process components.

Once operational, the facility will have an initial capacity of 25 MW - scalable to 100 MW - producing up to 3,700 tonnes of hydrogen per year. From 2026, the first hydrogen molecules will support logistics operations, supply public hydrogen refuelling stations, serve industrial users and contribute to reducing grid curtailment. This project illustrates BESIX’s fully integrated approach to delivering complex, largescale energy infrastructure, with all disciplines working in close collaboration.