Pioneering the World’s First Energy Island: The Princess Elisabeth Island

Belgian grid operator Elia is developing the world’s first artificial energy island: the Princess Elisabeth Island, located approximately 40 kilometres off the coast of Ostend in the North Sea. Iv, together with HSM and Smulders, form the joint venture responsible for the engineering of the HVAC modules, 3D integration of the island, construction and installation. But what exactly is involved in designing such a unique offshore energy hub? And how does it differ from a conventional offshore substation?

Technical design and regulation
The design must comply with both Belgian (onshore) legislation and European offshore standards, adding further complexity to the engineering phase. Iv is responsible for the complete 3D model integration of the energy island, including the facility modules. While these modules resemble offshore substations in design, they present additional technical challenges to meet the specific requirements of an energy island. Transport and installation also differ significantly from traditional offshore substations, an area in which Iv has relevant experience.

Covering 24 hectares, the equivalent of 12 football pitches, the island will include several elements: energy conversion modules, a facilities module with crew accommodation and warehouse space, a vehicle garage, and charging stations for transport on the island.

Collaboration and complex planning
While the technical design may be similar to the offshore substations Iv usually designs, the way of working and the partners involved are entirely different, says Frank. “We are collaborating with an island contractor and working closely with the civil contractor building the concrete foundations. These are not the usual parties in the offshore world. Moreover, the island itself needs to be completed before the modules, which requires a different kind of planning.”

It requires flexibility and a different way of working with close coordination required across numerous interfaces with other partners. Frank continues: “We exchange detailed design information with other stakeholders from an early stage. Everyone needs to stay fully informed of each other’s activities throughout. This level of collaboration contributes to a highly dynamic project environment, where constant coordination and adaptability are essential.”

Towards an operational energy island in 2031
Construction of the HVAC modules and the civil works began in 2025. A key milestone was reached on 19 June with the first steel cut ceremony at HSM Offshore Energy. Earlier this year, the first concrete caissons were submerged in the North Sea, marking the physical start of the island’s construction. Elia aims to have the Princess Elisabeth Island operational by 2031.