Ruien-Chièvres
Project to replace 150-kV overhead line between Ruien (in Flanders) and Chièvres with an underground connection
Addressing an ever-present need
The 150-kV overhead line between Ruien (in Kluisbergen, Flanders) and Chièvres is nearing the end of its service life. Since it is necessary for the region's security of supply, Elia plans to replace the line with a 150-kV underground connection.
The current overhead line passes through the municipalities of Kluisbergen, Mont-de-l'Enclus, Celles-en-Hainaut, Frasnes-les-Anvaing, Leuze-en Hainaut, Ath and Chièvres.
Specifically, Elia is planning the following sequence:
- Submit the permit applications for the underground connection project;
- Once the permits have been secured, build the underground connection;
- Dismantle the current overhead line.
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![Local residents and the surrounding area]](/-/media/project/elia/shared/pictures/infographics/env.png?h=45&w=82)
EnvironmentAs a socially responsible company, Elia is deeply committed to the environment. It contributes actively to the energy transition and is particularly concerned with preserving biodiversity. It also works closely with local authorities, residents and all the local stakeholders affected by its infrastructure projects as it expands and upgrades its grid.
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be carried out by an independent consultancy firm following the Preliminary Public Information Meeting held on 22 September last.
During the works phase, Elia also makes every effort to minimise the impact of its infrastructure projects on the local environment in which they are located. -
The routeRoute relating to the procedure in the Walloon region
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DocumentsBrochure to local residents - Februari 2021 (in French)
Brochure for local residents - September 2021 (in French)
Presentation of the preliminary information meeting (22/09/2021) (in French)
Route planner - September 2021
Letter to local residents - June 2022 (in French)
Letter to local residents - June 2022 (in Dutch)
Brochure to local residents - June (in French)
Information flyer - Laying of underground cables of electricity (in Dutch)
Panels of information session Ruien-Chièvres - June 2022 (in Dutch)
Letter to local residents - August 2023 (in French and Dutch)
Letter to local residents - September 2023 (in French and Dutch)
Letter to local residents - October 2023 (in French)
Brochure to local residents - October 2023 (in French)
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Interactive mapTo find the exact location, please visit the Google map hereunder -
How does this 150-kV line relate to the 380-kV Hainaut Loop project?
A number of projects and administrative procedures are currently under way, or under preparation, in the Province of Hainaut, These projects have different but equally important goals, but it is important to distinguish between them.
The 150-kV line between Ruien and Chièvres is reaching the end of its life, but this has nothing to do with the Hainaut Loop project. Grid studies indicate that the Ruien-Chièvres line needs to be replaced regardless of what happens with the Hainaut Loop project. The 150-kV network in the region is nearing saturation point, so this line cannot simply be dismantled.
Consequently, Elia is currently studying the most logical route possible for burying the 150-kV line, completely independently of the ongoing application to revise the sector plan for the Hainaut Loop project.
News
28 August 2025
New underground connection between Ruien and Chièvres: start of a new phase of works
Starting from 1 September 2025, we will launch a new phase of works on the Provincial Road N48, as part of the replacement of the 150 kV overhead electrical link between Ruien and Chièvres with an underground connection. This project is essential to strengthen the electricity supply security in the region.
18 July 2025
Summer break on the underground cable works
18 October 2024
Work in front of Chièvres substation
Contact us
If you are affected by a project and want to ask us something, please feel free to contact us.Our team would be happy to help.
