Elia to reinforce high-voltage grid in Tienen-Kersbeek-Diest region

New 150kV underground cable to meet future energy demand; information sessions in November 2026.

Elia versterkt hoogspanningsnet in regio Tienen-Kersbeek-Diest

Gemeente Bekkevoort

Elia is reinforcing the high-voltage grid in the Tienen, Kersbeek, and Diest region by installing a new 150kV underground high-voltage cable, replacing the current 70kV connection.

The demand for electricity is rising among both industry and households, prompting Elia to strengthen the power grid. The new cable will connect the high-voltage station of Tienen to that of Kersbeek and then to Diest. The existing overhead 70kV high-voltage connection between Diest and Tienen will eventually be dismantled.
Elia is organizing two information sessions for affected residents. These will take place on Monday, November 16, 2026, at OC Familieheem (Houwaartstraat 338, Scherpenheuvel-Zichem) and on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at Hangaar 44 (Steenbergestraat 44, Glabbeek). Both sessions will run from 6 PM to 8 PM and are free to attend. Registration is possible via an online form or by calling the toll-free number 0800/11 089.
The application for the environmental permit is scheduled for submission in November 2026. Following this, a public inquiry will be held where the full application can be reviewed. The actual works are expected to commence in mid-2027 and last until mid-2031. Preparatory work, such as soil investigations, will begin as early as October 2026 and should be completed by mid-November 2026.
Based on information from the official source: Gemeente Bekkevoort (27/10/2026)