Belgium faces several harsh winters ahead as it moves away from fossil fuels, according to Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. He suggested that the nation must endure five to ten difficult winters before a reliable energy transition takes hold, but he emphasized that the move away from fossil fuels could propel the country forward by about two decades in terms of energy security and economic resilience.
To mitigate the impact of energy prices and supply disruptions, Belgian officials outlined a plan to extend the operation of two major nuclear reactors within the country’s existing fleet. The focus is on Doel 4 and Tihange 3, with talks currently underway with the energy group Engie. After undergoing routine inspection and maintenance in late 2026, authorities are expected to decide on restarting these reactors by year-end, a decision that would shape the nation’s energy mix for the next decade.
Back in late 2021, Belgian authorities made a strategic decision to phase out all currently active nuclear reactors by 2025. The new approach reflects a shift in policy as the government weighs the balance between immediate energy reliability and long-term climate and energy goals. The discussions involve ensuring a stable electricity supply during the transition while keeping emissions in check and supporting households and businesses through potential pricing reforms.
Experts note that the energy transition is not a quick fix. It requires careful planning across multiple fronts, including grid modernization, energy storage capabilities, and diversified energy sources. By keeping selected reactors online in the near term, Belgium aims to cushion households from sharp price spikes and to maintain industrial competitiveness while accelerating the deployment of renewable energy and related infrastructure. The government’s stance signals a pragmatic approach that blends short-term stabilization with long-term decarbonization targets, acknowledging the country’s unique energy landscape and regional electricity market dynamics.