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

Iv, together with Smulders HSM, forms the joint venture responsible for the engineering of the HVAC modules, 3D integration of the island, construction and installation. Iv is responsible for the complete 3D model integration of the energy island, including the facility modules.

The Princess Elisabeth Island introduces a new approach to offshore energy infrastructure. The design must comply with both Belgian (onshore) legislation and European offshore standards, adding complexity to the engineering phase. The project demands flexibility and a different way of working, with close coordination across numerous interfaces involving a wide range of partners.

The HVAC modules include two high-voltage substations and a facilities module. Each substation houses essential components, including power transformers and gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), which form the backbone of the island’s AC transmission infrastructure. While these modules are similar in design to conventional offshore substations, they present additional technical challenges to meet the specific requirements of an energy island.

As a result, the transport and installation approach differs significantly from that used for traditional offshore substations and requires precise engineering, logistics planning and coordination across all disciplines.

Construction of the HVAC modules and the civil works began in 2025. A key milestone was reached on 19 June with the first steel-cutting ceremony at HSM Offshore Energy. Earlier that year, the first concrete caissons were submerged in the North Sea, marking the physical start of the island’s construction.

The Belgian government has underlined the strategic importance of the project and its planned interconnector with the United Kingdom, highlighting the island’s key role in Europe’s future electricity network. Elia aims to have the Princess Elisabeth Island operational by 2031.