The Royal Belgian Shipowners Association  applauds the outcomes of the Hamburg North Sea Summit on 26 January and welcomes the renewed political commitment to accelerate offshore wind development in the North Sea, including the new capacity targets and investment pact.

“KBRV fully supports the Summit’s ambition. Delivering large-scale offshore wind requires close cooperation between governments, grid operators, industry, and the maritime sector. Belgium’s maritime cluster is ready to help turn this ambition into reality,” said Loïc Van Staey, KBRV Managing Director.

Offshore shipping and marine construction are essential for building, connecting, and maintaining offshore wind capacity. Belgian firms such as DEME Group and Jan De Nul (KBRV members) are world leaders in developing complex, large-scale offshore wind projects. Their expertise is exemplified by projects like the Princess Elisabeth energy island, which channels renewable energy from offshore wind farms to the onshore grid.

KBRV looks forward to collaborating with policymakers at both national and European levels to help achieve the summit’s targets. “Offshore wind is not only a key energy transition project but also a major maritime-industrial endeavour. The expertise of Belgian offshore shipping companies can turn ambitious targets into operational projects. It is essential that the Belgian and European offshore sector can fully play its role in supporting Europe’s energy transition and security,” added Mr Van Staey.