Ventis, Engie Commission Belgian Wind Farm

Wedoany.com Report-May 19, Ventis and Engie have inaugurated a new wind farm in Gouy-Lez-Piéton, Courcelles, Belgium, featuring eight turbines with a total capacity of nearly 29 megawatts. Each turbine generates 3.6 megawatts, producing an estimated 51 gigawatt-hours annually, enough to power approximately 14,500 households and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 20,000 tonnes each year.

The project is a collaboration between Ventis, which owns six turbines, and Engie, which owns two. To address environmental concerns, the developers have implemented measures to protect local wildlife, particularly birds and bats. Eight hectares of land have been designated to create habitats for bird species sensitive to wind turbines. Additionally, an automated system can pause turbine operations during high-risk periods for bats, based on season, time, and weather conditions. An independent engineering firm will monitor noise levels to ensure minimal impact on nearby residents.

Jean-Luc Crucke, Belgium’s Federal Minister for Mobility, Climate, and the Environment, stated: “You cannot impose the climate transition, you build it step by step, project by project. This wind farm is concrete proof of this: clean, locally produced energy at the service of citizens and the community. It shows that our country is capable of making progress towards greater energy independence and greater resilience.”

Vincent Verbeke, Engie Belgium’s chief executive, added: “It is important to celebrate events such as the commissioning of this new wind farm in Courcelles. It is another step on the road to decarbonisation, a major and increasingly pressing challenge for our planet. This challenge can be met thanks to projects like this, which produce sustainable, reliable and affordable energy.”

The wind farm, a milestone 13 years in the making, enhances Belgium’s renewable energy capacity, supporting domestic energy consumption with sustainable power. The partnership between Ventis and Engie demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and community welfare, aligning with Belgium’s goals for a greener energy future.

By integrating advanced environmental protections, the project ensures sustainable energy production while preserving local ecosystems. The Courcelles wind farm contributes to regional economic growth through job creation and reinforces Belgium’s leadership in renewable energy development.