CO₂ pipeline Zelzate Zuid

Why is this infrastructure needed?

Fluxys is a key pioneer in the energy transition in Belgium and is joining forces with industry to develop infrastructure for transporting captured CO₂.

For many companies, capturing CO₂ is the only way to make their operations climate-neutral and so maintain local production and jobs. With this in mind, Fluxys is preparing the infrastructure required to remove captured CO₂ so that it can be reused by companies or safely and permanently stored.

Pipeline network for CO₂

For the important CO₂ connection between Wallonia and the port of Antwerp, Fluxys is building a pipeline of approximately 3 km in Zelzate, parallel to the E34, between the existing station and a new station to be built in 2026. The project fully complies with the Flemish decree on pipeline transport of CO₂.

The pipelines will only be laid once all the necessary permits have been obtained.

Taking into account the required processing times for the permit procedures, work on the first section of the infrastructure can start in 2028.

Some facts and figures:

  • The pipeline will run through Zelzate
  • Length: approx. 3 km
  • Diameter: 600 mm

Consultation

Landowners and operators have their own point of contact at Fluxys, from the preliminary study of the project to the restoration of their land following the construction of the line. This allows them to consult with someone who is familiar with their concerns and the features of their land from the outset.

When? Who will be involved? What will happen?
Summer 2025 Owners and operators Identification of the relevant parties
To be confirmed Owners and operators Information meetings presenting the project - Relevant local residents will receive a personal invitation
After the necessary permit(s) have been obtained Owners Conclusion of an agreement with the owners of the affected land
Before work in the work area starts Operators Drafting of a site description, agreed by both sides
After excavation of the trench Operators Description of drainage facilities (if any)
After restoration of drainage facilities Operators Confirmation of restoration of drainage facilities
After restoration of the land Operators Handover of documents for the release of the land, and assessment by both sides of damage and payment of compensation

Permit procedures

Permit procedure Public consultation   Current situation
Planning permit                From 2026-beginning of 2027