The Langerbrugge power plant, originally known as ECVB (Electrabel Centrale van België), was historically a thermal power station that primarily used coal and, later, natural gas as its main sources of fuel. Built to support the growing industrial needs of the region around Ghent, Belgium, the plant was a significant part of the local power generation infrastructure throughout much of the 20th century. It was capable of producing hundreds of megawatts of electricity, which made it a vital component of the Belgian energy network.
During its operational peak, the plant’s coal-fired units were the primary method of energy production, involving the combustion of coal to generate steam, which then drove turbines connected to electric generators. This process, while effective for power generation, contributed significantly to carbon emissions and other pollutants. As environmental standards and regulations tightened, and with the global shift towards cleaner energy sources, the plant’s reliance on coal became unsustainable.
In response to these changes, Langerbrugge gradually reduced its coal usage, transitioning some of its operations to natural gas, which is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel. However, this was seen only as a temporary measure, and eventually, the entire facility was phased out of fossil fuel-based electricity production. By 2001, most of the plant’s traditional power generation activities had ceased, paving the way for a new focus on renewable and bioenergy sources.
The photos shown in this article were taken during two visits, one in 2011 and the other in 2012.
Coming from the railway, I first entered the administrative section of the power plant.
Then I arrived in the Cockerill Room where the fuel was burnt. The discovery of this place was quite mindblowing.
All these pipes and large spaces inevitably bring to mind the concept of an industrial cathedral.
I then discovered an intermediate section with multiple floors.
This part led me to the room where the electricity was actually produced with the help of turbines.
At the end of this room was the alternator control room.
The second visit was also an opportunity to come with a friend who is a photographer and model, who gladly agreed to join in the experience. I also took the chance to try some self-portraits myself.
Somewhere set back from the main building, there was another smaller one that housed a library.
I will end this article by reminding you never to venture alone into these kinds of places, as they can be dangerous. You never know what or who you might encounter. Wear sturdy shoes, bring gloves, take a first aid kit, a headlamp, and a bottle of water.
