Belgium has taken a significant step forward in its energy strategy by officially joining the European nuclear alliance as of February 18, 2023. Energy Minister Mathieu Bihet announced the transition from observer status to full membership, marking the country’s commitment to promoting nuclear energy initiatives at the European Union (EU) level.
Initially established at the initiative of France, the pro-nuclear alliance includes 11 member states such as Bulgaria, Czech Republic, and Sweden, all working together to strengthen their energy cooperation. Despite Belgium's late entry, the country is now seeking to leave behind decades of uncertainty about its nuclear policy, with Bihet emphasizing, "Today, Belgium is choosing to leave decades of doubts behind and play a leading role in European nuclear energy."
This new commitment underlines the Belgian government’s intention to be at the forefront of discussions surrounding nuclear energy development, focusing on creating favorable frameworks for nuclear infrastructure and facilitating access to financing, including private investment.
With concerns rising over energy prices and the stability of its electricity grid — expected to be jeopardized by the planned closure of all seven of Belgium's nuclear reactors by 2025 — the government has strategized to extend the life of its current reactors. Specifically, Doel 4 and Tihange 3, the newest and highest-output reactors, will continue to provide up to 2,000 megawatts of electricity, is enough to power millions of households.
Europe is experiencing increasing energy demands and environmental pressures, which have resulted in rising energy prices and the search for cleaner energy solutions. Nuclear energy, identified as low-carbon since it does not emit direct carbon dioxide, is deemed necessary for the EU’s broader commitment to climate targets.
The European Commission approved Belgium’s financial assistance package following thorough reviews under EU state aid regulations. This approval came after Belgium modified its nuclear support framework to include necessary adjustments to satisfy regulatory concerns. With these changes, the European Commission determined the aid was necessary and proportionate to bolster Belgium's nuclear energy initiatives.
This shift marks Belgium's alignment with trends seen across Europe, where countries like France, Sweden, and Finland are revisiting their nuclear policies. The focus has moved toward extending existing reactors rather than embarking on the expensive and lengthy process of building new ones. Notably, the costs for extending reactor life by 10 to 20 years are considerably lower than establishing new plants — estimates indicate between $500 million to $1 billion for extensions versus $6 to $10 billion for new ones, according to the World Nuclear Association.
Belgium’s strategic continuity with nuclear energy not only contributes to stabilizing electricity prices but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, pivotal for energy independence. This turn reflects the growing realization across Europe: extending existing nuclear capacity may be far more effective and sustainable than previous nuclear phase-outs, as evidenced by Germany's recent decisions to shutter its reactors.
Belgium’s government is now tasked with ensuring nuclear energy remains integral to its energy strategy, balancing its energy requirements with ambitious climate goals. By joining the European alliance, Belgium positions itself as more than just a participant but as a contributing leader, working alongside other nations to forge the future of nuclear energy across the continent.
With challenges and opportunities on the horizon, Belgium aims to solidify its energy policy as it embraces nuclear energy as one of the main pillars for the current administration. The strategic actions taken now may well define not just Belgium's energy future, but its leadership role within the European energy framework.