Tractebel supports ENGIE's new power plant’s first start-up in Belgium

ENGIE has successfully carried out the ‘first firing’ of its new gas-fired power plant at Flémalle, Belgium, with the support of Tractebel’s engineering expertise. The gas turbine was started up for the first time, and all the essential systems were thoroughly tested. This first successful ignition marks the transition from the construction phase to operational testing, a key stage in the project.

By 1 November 2025, Belgium will have an additional 875 megawatts of electricity generation capacity: ENGIE’s new Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant at Flémalle. It will supply more than one million Belgian households with electricity. The plant will primarily be used to meet demand peaks and to balance the grid when necessary. Jointly with ENGIE in Belgium, our energy experts are instrumental in the project’s engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM).

EPCM model

The first firing, which was completed over the past few days, follows several months of intense preparation, installation, and testing of the various components, in collaboration with Tractebel.

Tractebel works closely with ENGIE in Belgium to provide EPCM services for the project. Over 40 Tractebel experts manage more than 25 contracts requiring a wide range of engineering competences from mechanical and electrical to civil, geotechnical, and environmental. Tractebel has also contributed its expertise for water intake and discharge under the Meuse River. Our experts are also involved in the renovation of a building on the Awirs industrial site that is designed to host Flémalle’s future socio-technical-administrative complex and control room.

First firing

The gas turbine was fuelled for the first time, and all the essential and safety systems were thoroughly tested. Following electrical safety tests, the turbine was connected to the high-voltage grid, and the first megawatt-hours were produced. After this initial successful start-up, the entire plant, comprising the gas turbine, heat recovery boiler, steam cycle, and steam turbine, will remain in the start-up phase, undergoing in-depth operational adjustments and tests.

The construction of the ultra-modern gas-fired power station at Flémalle is an emblematic project in several respects. Thanks to its modulation capacity, it contributes to the continuity of electricity supply in Belgium, providing a flexible complement to wind and solar energy, regardless of weather conditions. It is also a highly efficient, forward-looking generating unit, designed to minimize its emissions and ultimately be powered by renewable gases. This cutting-edge technology will play a crucial role in the energy transition.

Images: Flémalle Combined Cycle Gas Turbine site (copyright: ENGIE)