Overview

• Belgium’s federal legislature voted 102–8 to repeal the 2003 law mandating a nuclear phase-out by 2025, removing restrictions on new nuclear capacity.
• The repeal allows for extending the lifespan of reactors beyond Doel 4 and Tihange 3, which were already extended to 2035 under a 2023 agreement with Engie.
• The government aims to maintain nuclear energy as a cornerstone of electricity production, targeting 4 GW of nuclear capacity equivalent to four reactors.
• Engie, the operator of Belgium's reactors, has deprioritized nuclear in its strategy, requiring negotiations to align with the government’s plans.
• Three of Belgium’s seven reactors have been shut down since 2022, with two more scheduled for decommissioning next autumn under the current plan.