Collaboration between North Sea Port and Port of Antwerp-Bruges gains momentum with the strategic investment in Pipelink. As part of this venture, North Sea Port will acquire a minority stake in Pipelink, a subsidiary of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, marking a crucial step in advancing pipeline projects on local, national, and international scales. Pipelink, with an extensive asset base of 750 kilometers of pipelines in Belgium, holds the potential to play a vital role in facilitating the modal shift and steering the energy transition.
Recognizing the environmental advantages of pipelines as a sustainable means for transporting gaseous and liquid products, this partnership aims to leverage their efficiency and safety. The collaboration encompasses the representation of the three major Belgian port platforms – Antwerp, Ghent, and Zeebrugge – within Pipelink, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pipeline development. Beyond Belgium, the strategic network expansion also considers opportunities in the Netherlands, specifically in Ghent, Vlissingen, and Terneuzen, underlining the shared commitment to fostering energy-intensive industries and exploring pipeline possibilities.
Pipelink’s forward-looking agenda extends to the development of pipeline networks designed for the transportation of green hydrogen carriers, including ammonia, methane, and methanol. With plans for new pipelines connecting Zeebrugge and Antwerp port platforms, the collaboration anticipates strengthening the connection between the Ghent and Antwerp clusters. Furthermore, the shared vision involves promoting Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) and Carbon Capture & Utilisation (CCU) initiatives, aligning with the broader transition toward climate neutrality. Both Port of Antwerp-Bruges and North Sea Port are poised to contribute to the emergence of CO2 hubs and local infrastructure, supporting industrial clients on their journey to achieve climate-neutral operations.
Image source: https://newsroom.portofantwerpbruges.com/north-sea-port-becomes-second-pipelink-shareholder-for-international-pipeline-projects