Construction has officially commenced on a landmark renewable energy project at Ostend-Bruges Airport, which will soon host the largest solar park in West Flanders and the second-largest in all of Belgium. The initiative, a strategic partnership with developer EnergyVision, underscores the airport’s commitment to becoming a leader in sustainable aviation.
The ambitious project, which saw its symbolic launch on June 17, 2024, involves a €35 million investment to install approximately 60,000 solar panels across an area of 303,864 square meters—equivalent to about 60 football fields. This coastal location provides a distinct advantage, offering up to 10% higher solar insolation than inland sites due to increased sunshine and less cloud cover. The installation makes productive use of land alongside the runways that would otherwise be unusable.
Once fully operational by spring 2026, the solar park is projected to generate 37,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity annually. This output will not only be sufficient to power the entire airport but will also supply surplus green energy to approximately 10,000 local households. According to a statement from EnergyVision, the project is expected to reduce annual carbon emissions by around 10,100 tonnes, significantly contributing to the airport’s goals of a 30% CO2 reduction by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
To ensure maximum efficiency and overcome grid limitations, the facility will be equipped with large-scale batteries for energy storage. The project follows a phased timeline, with initial energy production slated to begin as early as September 2024. In recognition of its forward-thinking approach to sustainability, Ostend-Bruges Airport has already been honored with the 2025 TIACA Sustainability Award.
The development also incorporates a strong community focus, championed by local leaders like Ostend Mayor Bart Tommelein. A citizen participation program, named “Stroom van ‘t Zeetje,” allows local residents to invest in the project for a guaranteed return, fostering public engagement and shared benefits from the region’s transition to renewable energy.
Sources for West Flanders’s Largest Solar Park Being Built at Ostend-Bruges Airport
- Ostend-Bruges Airport to become Belgium’s second-largest solar park
- Construction of the Largest Solar Park in West Flanders Begins at Ostend-Bruges Airport
- Ostend-Bruges Airport Wins 2025 TIACA Sustainability Award
- Solar park at Ostend-Bruges Airport to cut 9,600 tons of CO2
- Largest solar park in Belgian West Flanders province breaks ground at Ostend-Bruges Airport
- Ostend-Bruges Airport gets largest solar park in West Flanders
- Construction of West Flanders’ largest solar park starts | EnergyVision
- Ostend-Bruges Airport – EnergyVision
- Top five solar PV plants in development in Belgium
