Pieter De Crem (CD&V) was appointed chairman of high-voltage group Elia in February. This is stated in the company’s annual report. He succeeds Geert Versnick, who passed away last November. 

De Crem has been a member of the board of directors of the high-voltage group since 2021. He has also been appointed chairman of Elia Transmission Belgium, the group’s Belgian subsidiary. 

Elia plays a crucial role in Belgium’s energy system. As the operator of the high-voltage grid, it ensures the reliable transmission of electricity across the country and connects Belgium to neighboring European markets.

The company is also central to the energy transition, integrating renewable energy sources such as offshore wind and helping maintain grid stability as electrification increases.

Expertise and experience

A spokesperson points to the former minister and mayor of Aalter’s expertise and experience. The appointment, however, is valid for only one year. In 2027, new mandates must be proposed.

In March 2025, Pieter De Crem came under fire as the mayor of Aalter after it emerged that people of foreign origin had to wait nine times longer to register in the municipality than native Belgians. The opposition in Aalter spoke of a policy of harassment and discrimination against immigrants.

In September 2025, Audit Flanders confirmed that the policy was unlawful and discriminatory, after which De Crem resigned as mayor and alderman of the municipality. And so today, he resurfaces as chairman of Elia.