Managed by Elia, the Hainaut Loop project involves constructing a 380,000-volt electrical line between Avelgem and Courcelles, spanning approximately 85 kilometers. This infrastructure aims to strengthen Belgium's electrical grid and transport renewable energy from the North Sea. After evaluating several alternatives, the Walloon Government selected a new route that would cross 14 municipalities, including Braine-le-Comte. It combines overhead and underground lines, with at least 8 kilometers of the line to be buried along the entire route. An underground section is planned between Thoricourt (Silly) and the north of Soignies.
The chosen route would affect 21 homes in Braine-le-Comte, as well as several nearby neighborhoods. The initial route, which ran along the N57, would have impacted 11 homes. Other concerns include potential consequences for agricultural and economic activities, landscapes, heritage, and the area's tourism appeal, particularly in the vicinity of the Ronquières Inclined Plane. The Municipal Council reaffirmed its unfavorable opinion on October 19, 2026.
The Municipal Council acknowledges the necessity of strengthening the electrical grid to meet growing demand and ensure supply security, which is crucial for the economic activity in Hainaut. However, it believes the project should not come at the expense of residents, local activities, and landscapes. The town therefore requests a thorough investigation into burying the line for the longest possible distance. Alternatively, it suggests consolidating infrastructure along the Nationale 57 to minimize the impact on the territory. This latter solution could, however, have greater repercussions on neighboring municipalities, including Écaussinnes. Consequently, consultation is emphasized to find a solution that considers the interests of all affected territories.
The route proposed by the Walloon Government must undergo several more stages before final adoption. Citizens will have the opportunity to voice their observations. A provisional timeline includes: consultation of official project documents starting now, a public inquiry in early 2027 (lasting 45 days), examination of citizen feedback, a new opinion from the Municipal Council, and final adoption of the reservation perimeter by the end of 2027. Construction will only begin after a permit procedure. Municipal authorities will continue to monitor the project closely and inform citizens of upcoming steps and participation opportunities. An informational letter will be distributed to residents in an expanded area around the proposed route.
Official project documents, including the environmental impact report, its cartographic atlas, a non-technical summary, and the administration's analysis of different options, are accessible online on the SPW Territoire website.
