Second ene.field national workshop showcases fuel cell micro-CHP contribution to energy transition in Belgium
The FCH JU funded ene.field project’s national dissemination workshop for Belgium, held on the 27th of September near Brussels, was the second in a series of events aimed at informing participants about the ene.field project findings and the potential of fuel cell micro-CHP (FC micro-CHP) technologies for the energy transition at national level. As of today 21 fuel cell micro-CHP units have been installed in Belgium with financial support from ene.field. The recently launched PACE project, also funded by the FCH JU, which is expected to provide a step-up in ambition for the large scale uptake of fuel cell micro-CHP products in Europe, will allow for the further deployment of more than 2,500 units across Europe, including Belgium.
During the workshop prominent speakers representing the European Commission, including the Executive Director of FCH JU Mr Bart Biebuyck, the fuel cells micro-CHP industry and industry associations delivered valuable insights into the potential for fuel cell micro-CHP, providing recommendations on how to develop the market for these products in Belgium.
During the discussion, the panelists highlighted the multiple benefits of fuel cells micro-CHP energy solutions, empowering householders to play an active role in the energy transition, supporting the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources and contributing to stimulate growth and jobs in Europe.
They further concluded that for a successful mass commercialisation of fuel cell micro-CHP, industry efforts need to be complemented by high level political commitment and active involvement in promoting these products as key technologies in the energy system of the future. Recommendations addressed at policymakers in Belgium covered the need for adequate support for micro-CHP technologies, which reflect the energy savings and emission reductions delivered by these products, while addressing administrative and non-economic barriers. Moreover, public authorities can play an exemplary role by adopting some of these new technologies in their own buildings, as promoted in the Energy Efficiency Directive.
To get the full story, you can watch the video of the workshop, with interviews by Mr. Bart Biebuyck (Executive Director, FCH JU) and Jan-Willem Tolkamp (Benelux Manager, SOLIDpower).


