Construction of the new Baekeland high-voltage substation officially began on December 15. Flemish Minister of Ports Annick De Ridder, Port Alderman Sofie Bracke, and the CEOs of Elia, North Sea Port, and ArcelorMittal Belgium were present for the symbolic groundbreaking ceremony. The plans and importance of this project were explained in the presence of the press.
What is the Baekeland high-voltage substation?
- The high-voltage substation receives electricity via cables and overhead lines. Transformers convert this to different voltage levels for large consumers.
- It will become a crucial hub in the Belgian electricity grid.
- The substation provides greater and better access to power for the port and surrounding industry.
- It supports the energy transition in our region.
- ArcelorMittal Belgium will be the first company to be connected directly to the high-voltage grid from 2030 onwards.
Why is this important to us?
To realize our plans for an electric furnace, we require more electricity. Therefore, in November, we signed a contract with Elia to connect to the 380 kV high-voltage power grid. Our current 150 kV connection is not sufficient for the future electric furnaces. This new connection will guarantee the necessary capacity and is an essential step in our journey to reduce carbon emissions.
Planning of the works
- The 15-hectare site along the R4 East is ready for construction.
- Construction of the high-voltage substation is now starting.
- Operations are scheduled to begin in 2030.
"With this groundbreaking, we are taking an essential step towards electric steel production. As soon as the preconditions are met, we will be ready to produce low-carbon steel on an industrial scale," said our CEO Frederik Van De Velde.
