The European Commission has approved a €2.04 billion Belgian scheme to support offshore wind energy in line with the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal. This measure will contribute to the transition towards a net-zero economy. The scheme was approved under the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF) adopted by the Commission on 25 June 2025.
The aid will take the form of a monthly variable premium under a two-way contract for difference (‘CfD’). The compensation will be calculated by comparing the bid price to a reference market price, weighted by the monthly capability of the offshore wind farm. The beneficiaries will receive payments when the reference price is below this bid price. When the reference price is above the bid price, the beneficiaries will have to pay the Belgian authorities.
The Commission found that the Belgian scheme meets the conditions of the CISAF (sections 3 and 4.1.2).
The Commission concluded that the Belgian scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to accelerate the transition towards a net-zero economy and facilitate the development of certain economic activities that are important for the implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal. This is in line with Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU and the conditions set out in the CISAF.
On this basis, the Commission approved the Belgian measure under EU State aid rules.
Clean, Just and Competitive Transition Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera said: “The energy we produce at home is energy we don’t need to import. Belgium’s €2.04 billion scheme in the Princess Elisabeth offshore wind farm will deliver up to 2.6 TWh of clean electricity a year, strengthening our energy independence while making progress towards a more competitive, decarbonized European economy.”
A press release is available online.
