EHP expands with a new plant in Wallonia
This Walloon tech gem reached a major milestone in its expansion in 2024 with the inauguration of a new factory in Nivelles. The company has risen to global leadership in heat pipes and thermal control systems for the space industry since its acquisition in 2017, when Airbus Defence & Space took a 51% stake, with the remaining shares held by Wallonie Entreprendre.
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Founded two decades ago as a spin-off from SABCA and ULB, EHP quickly established itself as a leading player in the Belgian space industry. Thanks to its innovative products and steady growth, the company is now recognised as the world leader in the supply of heat pipes — essential components for spacecraft thermal regulation.
Heat pipes play a crucial role in cooling high-power electronic equipment onboard spacecraft. They efficiently transfer heat from hot zones to cold zones without loss along the way. Demand continues to grow, driven by the European Space Agency (ESA), satellite constellations and telecom operators.
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Expanding production capacity
In 2024, EHP invested around €15 million in a new ultra-modern 10,000 m² plant in Nivelles. This expansion marks a major turning point, enabling the company to double its production capacity while modernising its equipment. The new facility includes a state-of-the-art clean room, advanced testing capabilities and additional space, and was developed in partnership with the inBW intermunicipal authority under a long-term agreement.
With the new plant, EHP estimates its production capacity at around 5,000 units per year, with the potential to reach 8,000 or even 12,000 units annually in the future. Expansion is not limited to Europe, as EHP is also deploying operations in the United States and Canada, aiming to play a key role in satellite constellation projects across the Atlantic.
A strong competitive edge
In Europe, EHP faces one competitor in Spain, with more limited capacity and longer delivery times. In the United States, its main rival is ATK Orbital, a subsidiary of Northrop Grumman. With its new facility and expanded production capabilities, EHP is well positioned to become the partner of choice for future thermal control system needs.
Beyond heat pipes, EHP has broadened its product range with larger thermal systems and deployable radiators, further strengthening its market presence. The company also manufactures robotic arms used to deploy satellite electric thrusters — another key component of the space sector.
Through its expertise, innovation and sustained growth, EHP is promoting Wallonia internationally and showcasing the region’s strong ecosystem for the space industry.
