European Commission orders study into prolongation of Belgium’s nuclear reactors

The European Commission has announced that it plans to open an in-depth investigation to check whether the public support that Belgium plans to grant for the extension of two nuclear reactors (Doel 4 and Tihange 3) complies with EU rules on state aid.

Belgium decided years ago to phase out nuclear power by 2025 as part of its long-term energy strategy, but the decision received immediate backlash.

The subsequent energy crisis resulting from the war between Russia and Ukraine provoked further criticism of the abandonment of nuclear energy, whose proponents often cite both safety and energy independence as reasons to continue the programme.

In March 2022, the government began talks with electricity supplier Engie to extend the operation of Doel 4 and Tihange 3, eventually signing an agreement that comes with an investment of at least €1.6 billion and an estimated restart date in November 2025.

The partnership between the government and Engie is what will be examined further in the European Commission’s investigation.

The opening of the in-depth inquiry gives Belgium and interested third parties the opportunity to comment.