Rodenhuize (Ghent) was originally built as a coal-fired power station, but a number of modifications were made to one of the units in 2005 and 2008 to permit the production of electricity based on coal and biomass.

The Max Green project, due to start in 2010, represents the last step in conversion of the unit, with coal being fully replaced by biomass, wood pellets originating from producers who apply sustainable forestry. The unit Rodenhuize 4 will have a capacity of 180 MW, a world premiere for its capacity. The conversion involves an investment of 125 M euros and will produce enough power to supply 320 000 households.
For the purpose of the project Electrabel and Ackermans & van Haaren have set up a joint venture under the name of Max Green NV, in which Electrabel and Ackermans & van Haaren control 73% and 27%. The aim of Max Green is to examine other projects in renewable energy in the future.

To reach the objectives set by the EU in its Climat plan (by 2020, 20% of all energy consumed needs to originate from renewable sources) Belgium will have to mobilise all renewable sources, and in particular biomass. The Max Green project is an important contribution in the realisation of this objective.

For Electrabel, this project is a first element in an ambitious investment program of 500 M euros in which the Group GDF SUEZ engaged itself within the global agreement that was closed with the Belgian government as a result of the decision to extend the life of the nuclear power plants. 

This is also part of its sustainable development plan "Together for less CO2" which Electrabel introduced at the end of 2008. As an energy producer the company has committed itself under the plan to expand its renewable generating facilities so that by 2015 it will be able to supply 1 million Belgian households with green power.

For Ackermans & van Haaren this investment means a reinforcement of its fifth segment "Energy and materials".