Federal Government endorses Belgian Energy Island as spearhead project for EU COVID-19 recovery fund

• Recovery fund was established in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic for a greener European economy and sustainable growth
• Elia will use the funding to build the foundations of the Princess Elisabeth Island
• The Belgian energy island will be a key link for unlocking offshore wind potential located in the North Sea

The Federal Government and Elia Transmission Belgium (Elia) have signed an agreement relating to financial support offered up as part of the Recovery & Resilience Facility (RRF). The fund was established by the European Commission in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic to support future-oriented investments being undertaken by Member States. The RRF aims to make Europe’s economy greener and more robust - two objectives that are even more relevant given the current energy crisis. The signing of the protocol which governs the €99.7 million grant being given to Elia took place in the presence of the Minister of Energy, Tinne Van der Straeten, the State Secretary for Economic Recovery and Strategic Investment, Thomas Dermine and Stefaan de Rynck, head of the European Commission's Representation in Belgium.