Belgium reopens the nuclear door in high-stakes deal with Engie
Belgium Reopens Nuclear Energy Pathway Amid Rising Costs and Geopolitical Uncertainty
Belgium reopens the nuclear door in high – Belgium’s energy policy has undergone a dramatic reversal as the government, under Prime Minister Bart De Wever, moves to revive nuclear power as a cornerstone of its future energy strategy. This shift comes amid soaring electricity costs, which have surged over 50% in recent months, driven by ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and mounting uncertainty in the Middle East. The decision to re-enter the nuclear energy sector is not only a response to immediate financial pressures but also a strategic move to secure long-term energy independence. The new partnership with the French energy giant Engie marks a pivotal moment in Belgium’s energy transition, signaling a departure from its earlier commitment to phase out nuclear power by 2025.
From Phase-Out to Revival: A Political U-turn
Belgium’s original plan to retire all nuclear reactors by 2025 had been set in motion with the 2003 legislation that mandated the closure of the country’s nuclear fleet. However, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022 disrupted global energy markets, causing natural gas and electricity prices to skyrocket. This economic turbulence undermined the feasibility of the phase-out plan, as the country faced mounting inflation and energy insecurity. The parliamentary repeal of the 2003 law in May 2025 was a critical step, allowing for the possibility of restarting nuclear operations. This legislative change, though initially met with resistance from environmental groups like the Greens, ultimately paved the way for a renewed focus on nuclear energy.
The decision to reinvigorate nuclear power was made in the context of a deepening energy crisis that has strained Belgium’s ability to maintain stable electricity prices. With the Middle East conflict persisting and the Strait of Hormuz remaining a flashpoint for global oil supply, the country has become increasingly reliant on imported fossil fuels. This dependency has exposed vulnerabilities in Belgium’s energy infrastructure, prompting the government to seek alternatives. The collaboration with Engie, a leading French energy company, represents a bold effort to reclaim control of the nation’s energy assets and reduce its exposure to volatile international markets.
A Strategic Agreement to Reclaim Energy Sovereignty
On Thursday, the Belgian government announced a landmark agreement with Engie to conduct feasibility studies for the full acquisition of the country’s nuclear power plants and the suspension of decommissioning activities. The deal, which aims to finalize the takeover by 1 October, is framed as a pathway to a “nuclear renaissance” that balances affordability, sustainability, and energy security. De Wever, the Prime Minister, stated in a press statement that the government’s choice reflects a commitment to ensuring stable energy supply, reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports, and safeguarding the nation’s strategic autonomy. “By reactivating nuclear energy, Belgium can stabilize its energy costs and strengthen its resilience against global market fluctuations,” he said.
“This government opts for secure, affordable, and sustainable energy. With less dependence on fossil fuel imports and more control over our own supply,” De Wever said on Thursday.
The agreement is part of a broader effort to address the challenges posed by the Middle East crisis, which has exacerbated energy price volatility. As of April, inflation in Belgium had climbed to 4% due to the spike in electricity costs, underscoring the urgency of the government’s actions. The deal is expected to provide a blueprint for integrating nuclear power back into the country’s energy mix, potentially offering a long-term solution to the current instability. However, the exact financial terms of the partnership remain undisclosed, raising questions about the economic viability of this revival.
The Nuclear Fleet: A Legacy of Seven Reactors
Belgium currently operates a fleet of seven nuclear reactors: four at the Doel plant in East Flanders and three at the Tihange facility in Wallonia. While two reactors—Doel 4 and Tihange 3—are still active, the remaining five have either been decommissioned or are in the process of being phased out. Their operating licenses were recently extended until 2035, a move that has been interpreted as a cautious step toward reactivating the nuclear sector. However, the government may further prolong their operational lifespans if the current energy crisis persists, ensuring a continuous supply of electricity amid geopolitical uncertainties.
Engie’s involvement in this revival is significant, given its expertise in nuclear energy and its history of managing large-scale energy projects. The company has been tasked with conducting comprehensive feasibility studies to assess the technical and economic aspects of acquiring and operating the reactors. These studies will explore options for modernizing the plants, improving safety standards, and integrating them with Belgium’s renewable energy goals. The partnership also aims to leverage Engie’s capabilities in managing the complexities of nuclear energy, from regulatory compliance to public engagement.
Political Vision and EU Solidarity
Energy Minister Mathieu Bihet hailed the decision as a “coherent political vision” that aligns with the broader European Union strategy to diversify energy sources. He emphasized that the government’s move would not only lower energy prices for consumers but also enhance the country’s strategic energy autonomy. “Less than a year after the law enabling the return of nuclear energy in Belgium came into force, this momentum is already materialising through our determination to regain control of our assets and capabilities,” Bihet told Euronews.
“With this, the Belgian government assumes responsibility for the country’s long-term energy supply, with the aim of developing a financially and economically viable activity that supports security of supply, climate objectives, industrial resilience, and socio-economic prosperity,” reads the press statement from the Belgian government and Engie.
The revival of nuclear energy in Belgium has been supported by key EU figures, including Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In 2024, under the leadership of Alexander de Croo, Belgium hosted a pivotal nuclear summit that brought together eleven EU nations to endorse a declaration promoting nuclear energy as a vital component of the bloc’s energy strategy. Two years later, in 2026, the summit was held in Paris, where nations reaffirmed their commitment to deploying small modular reactors (SMRs) to counteract energy price fluctuations. Von der Leyen called the phase-out of nuclear power a “strategic mistake,” highlighting its importance in achieving energy independence and climate targets.
Reassessing Energy Priorities
The decision to reopen the nuclear door has sparked a broader debate about Belgium’s energy priorities. While environmental groups initially opposed the repeal of the 2003 law, the economic realities of the energy crisis have forced a reevaluation of the country’s stance. Nuclear energy, once seen as a relic of the past, is now being positioned as a critical tool for stabilizing electricity costs and reducing reliance on external suppliers. The government argues that this approach will not only support industrial competitiveness but also align with climate goals, as nuclear power produces low carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Despite the economic rationale, challenges remain. The revival of nuclear energy requires significant investment, regulatory approvals, and public acceptance. Engie’s role in this process is crucial, as the company will need to navigate the intricacies of managing the reactors while addressing concerns about safety, waste disposal, and environmental impact. The feasibility studies are expected to provide clarity on these issues, helping to build a consensus for the long-term viability of the project.
A New Era of Energy Strategy
The partnership with Engie marks a turning point in Belgium’s energy policy, reflecting a broader trend of countries revisiting nuclear power as a response to the global energy crisis. This shift is not unique to Belgium, as similar efforts have been seen in other European nations, including France, which has long been a proponent of nuclear energy. The renewed focus on nuclear power in Belgium underscores the importance of a diversified energy mix in ensuring stability and resilience in the face of geopolitical and economic challenges.
As the feasibility studies progress, the government will need to balance the interests of various stakeholders, including environmental advocates, industry leaders, and the general public. The outcome of this collaboration could have far-reaching implications, not only for Belgium’s energy landscape but also for its relationship with France and the EU’s broader energy strategy. With the Middle East crisis showing no signs of abating, the timing of this decision could prove decisive in securing the country’s energy future.
