CO₂-corridor Opwijk-Lievegem
GRUP pipeline corridor Opwijk-Lievegem: project and procedure
The Flemish Government is investigating the designation of a pipeline corridor between Opwijk and Lievegem through a Regional Spatial Implementation Plan (GRUP) procedure. This corridor could provide space in the future for new underground infrastructure, including a possible CO₂ pipeline managed by Fluxys c-grid.
On 18 September 2026, the Flemish Government approved the Start Memorandum for the preparation of the Regional Spatial Implementation Plan (GRUP). The planned area extends across Aalst, Berlare, Dendermonde, Evergem, Ghent, Lebbeke, Lievegem, Lochristi, Lokeren, Opwijk and Zele.
For all official information regarding the proposed route, the procedure, information sessions, opportunities for public participation, and additional documentation, we refer you to the website of the Department of Environment of the Flemish Government. This information will be further supplemented by the competent authorities as the process progresses.
On this page, Fluxys provides information about its role in the project and the further development of the potential CO₂ infrastructure along this corridor.
- Startnota
- Publieke raadpleging
- Scoping
- Voorontwerp GRUP
- Ontwerp GRUP
- Definitief GRUP
An important step towards carbon management in Flanders
Flanders and Belgium face the challenge of further reducing emissions from industries that are difficult to decarbonise. For certain industrial processes, carbon capture, transport and storage (CCUS) will play an important role in the transition towards a climate-neutral economy.
To make this possible, studies are underway to determine what infrastructure is needed to safely transport captured CO₂ to permanent storage sites. The Opwijk-Lievegem pipeline corridor forms part of this effort. If realised, this connection could become a link in a future CO₂ network connecting industrial regions in Belgium with other European infrastructure and storage locations, including those in the North Sea.
Why this GRUP?
- To reserve space for future underground pipelines between Opwijk and Lievegem.
- To prepare the spatial planning framework for a potential Fluxys c-grid CO₂ pipeline.
- To integrate the connection into the future CO₂ network between the German border and Zeebrugge.
A connection within a larger network
The route between Opwijk and Lievegem forms part of a longer corridor running between Eynatten, near the German border, and Zeebrugge. It connects with other Fluxys CO₂ projects, including Ruhbens, as well as connections to permanent storage sites in the North Sea.
Fluxys c-grid is working on the development of the Belgian CO₂ network as part of a future European network. Following the designation of Fluxys c-grid as the Belgian CO₂ network operator, these plans can gradually be translated into concrete infrastructure projects that support the energy transition.
For this project, Fluxys contributes its expertise in pipeline infrastructure, building on decades of experience in the design, construction and operation of underground networks. Safety, reliability and respect for people and the environment remain central throughout this process.
What is the current status of the project?
Public consultation: 13 October to 11 December 2026
For the latest project updates, please consult the page of the Department of Environment.