The future of energy: Bekaert’s sustainable solutions to support the energy transition

The shift towards alternative energy sources has become essential for building a sustainable future on a global scale. The energy transition, encompassing advancements in mobility, hydrogen, wind, and solar power, lies at the heart of global efforts to combat climate change. For Bekaert, these markets are not just opportunities for growth but a chance to lead the charge in creating a greener world. By 2030, Bekaert aims for 65% of its sales to stem from sustainable solutions, including those that contribute to the global energy transition. Here’s an overview of how our sustainable solutions are shaping the future.

As the world intensifies its battle against climate change, hydrogen has emerged as a key player in the decarbonization of industries, power generation, and transportation. Its potential to reshape the energy landscape makes it a critical area for innovation and investments. One efficient method for producing hydrogen is through Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis, a process that uses renewable electricity to split water molecules, releasing hydrogen. However, this process requires finely engineered components to ensure reliability and efficiency, including ultra-thin membranes, porous transport layers, and catalyst materials.

Offshore wind is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive sources of sustainable energy. As global demand for clean energy rises, wind technology is playing a pivotal role in transitioning away from fossil fuels. Bekaert has been reliably involved in the installation of offshore wind platforms by supplying synthetic ropes and steel cables. They are used for lifting parts to install wind turbines at sea. All major offshore construction companies and dredgers rely on our products. The synthetic ropes are capable of carrying structures of up to 10,000 tons. Currently, we are working on customized ropes to satisfy the requirements of these particular wind turbine installation cranes. This increases the service life of the cranes which allows for more lifting movements over its lifespan. This development is done with the cooperation of world-renowned offshore Belgian companies. 

Bekaert is also deeply involved in floating offshore wind (FOW) technology, which allows wind energy to be harvested in deeper waters where fixed-bottom structures are not feasible. Our hybrid mooring solutions, developed through joint industry projects, address the unique challenges of floating platforms, including marine fouling and seabed contact. By providing tailored solutions for both fixed-bottom and floating wind farms, Bekaert is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in offshore wind technology.

Read more: Bekaert joins TAILWIND Project to develop floating offshore wind mooring solutions

Solar power is another cornerstone of the global energy transition, offering a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Floating offshore solar power plants, in particular, present a groundbreaking opportunity to harness sunlight over vast ocean surfaces without competing for land resources. These installations not only provide clean energy but also offer secondary benefits such as reducing water evaporation from reservoirs and minimizing environmental impact.

Bekaert is proud to contribute to the world’s largest offshore floating solar power plant, The Nautical Sunrise project, by providing mooring solution analysis. This project represents an exciting leap forward in solar energy, demonstrating the potential of floating solar technology to accelerate the global shift towards a greener future.

Read more: Bekaert to provide mooring solution analysis on world’s largest offshore floating solar power plant

The electrification of transportation is crucial to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lessening our reliance on fossil fuels. Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a cleaner alternative to traditional combustion engines, leading to improved air quality, reduced pollution, and better public health. However, achieving widespread adoption of EVs requires innovations that enhance performance and efficiency.

As the world moves towards a net-zero future, Bekaert is committed to leading the energy transition by providing sustainable solutions across multiple sectors. From hydrogen production to offshore wind, solar power, and electric vehicles, Bekaert’s innovations are driving the shift towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape. By 2030, we aim for 65% of our sales to come from sustainable solutions, a testament to our dedication to shaping the way we live and move.

Bekaert's commitment to sustainability goes beyond individual solutions—it’s about creating a fully integrated ecosystem that addresses the global energy challenge holistically. As the demand for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions grows, Bekaert continues to push the boundaries of innovation across its entire portfolio. Whether it’s reducing the environmental impact of industrial processes, supporting the development of renewable energy infrastructure, or contributing to the evolution of electric mobility, Bekaert’s efforts are focused on creating value for all stakeholders.

Moreover, Bekaert recognizes the importance of collaboration. By partnering with industry leaders, academic institutions, and government bodies, we’re able to leverage a wide array of expertise and resources to deliver cutting-edge technologies that support the energy transition. Our work in joint industry projects (JIPs), such as those focused on floating offshore wind and solar power, showcases how partnerships are key to overcoming the unique challenges of transitioning to renewable energy at scale.

Join us in driving the future of sustainable energy! Together, we can overcome the challenges of renewable energy integration and create a cleaner, more resilient power grid. Together, we can create a better tomorrow.