The government of Belgium is planning to acquire nuclear power plants currently operated by Engie as part of efforts to strengthen national energy security and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever indicated that authorities are targeting a full takeover of the country’s nuclear fleet, which includes seven ageing reactors.
The proposed move would also halt plans to decommission the facilities, marking a significant policy shift away from Belgium’s long-standing nuclear phase-out strategy introduced in the early 2000s.
Under the previous framework, the construction of new nuclear plants was prohibited, and the operational lifespan of existing reactors was capped at 40 years.
Currently, only two reactors remain active located at the Doel Nuclear Power Station and Tihange Nuclear Power Station with their licences recently extended to 2035. The remaining five units, shut down between 2022 and 2025, could now see their dismantling plans suspended.
Both the Belgian government and Engie are aiming to finalise an agreement on the takeover by October 1, while also exploring the extension of existing reactor operations and the development of new nuclear capacity.
Officials say the move is intended to ensure a more stable, affordable, and sustainable energy mix, while improving national control over electricity supply and supporting climate and industrial goals.
Belgium’s decision reflects a broader trend across Europe, where several countries are reconsidering their stance on nuclear energy amid concerns over energy security and rising global fuel costs.
However, the reactors have long been a source of controversy, with repeated shutdowns for safety checks and concerns raised by neighbouring countries over ageing infrastructure.
Tensions previously escalated over plans to extend reactor lifespans, particularly around the Tihange facility, where safety concerns prompted precautionary measures in nearby regions.