The Belgian government and French energy supplier Engie, the operator of Belgium's nuclear power plants, have come to a mutual agreement on extending the lifespan of the Tihange 3 and

Doel 4 reactors. Prime Minister De Croo stated that the deal strengthens Belgium's electricity supply, reduces energy dependence, and ensures the production of carbon-free, affordable electricity.

On Thursday, both parties announced an "interim" agreement outlining the modalities for the 10-year extension of Doel 4 and Tihange 3. The agreement aims to balance risks between the government and Engie while addressing uncertainties surrounding nuclear waste processing.

Engie and the federal government are actively working towards restarting Belgium's two youngest reactors, with a "preferred scenario" set for November 2025, subject to effective regulatory changes as announced. This timeline ensures security of supply throughout the winter of 2025-2026. If circumstances require, the restart may be delayed until November 2026. A legal framework will be established for the extension, with the Belgian state and Engie becoming joint owners of the two reactors.

Nuclear waste disposal is also a key consideration in the agreement. A lump sum of 15 billion euros has been allocated for future costs related to the disposal and processing of nuclear waste from all of Engie's nuclear facilities in Belgium. This amount is in addition to funds already designated for decommissioning the nuclear plants. The press release from both parties indicates that Engie's total nuclear liabilities towards Belgium stand at a minimum of 23 billion euros.

Prime Minister Alexander De Croo emphasized the positive impact of the agreement on Belgian citizens, providing certainty about the cost of nuclear waste and ensuring the country's energy supply. Energy Minister Tinne van der Straeten highlighted the urgency to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reclaim control over energy in light of the changed European energy landscape, influenced by the conflict in Ukraine and rising energy prices.

Belgium had previously been on a path toward the permanent closure of all nuclear power plants by 2025. However, due to evolving circumstances, including the war in Ukraine and soaring energy prices, the Green party, led by Minister van der Straeten, reversed its stance. In March of last year, the Belgian federal government made the decision in principle to extend the operation of the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 plants for an additional decade. A subsequent agreement with Engie in January of this year paved the way for the continued operation of both plants until the winter of 2026-2027.

The initial agreement allowed for the commencement of various studies and confirmed the establishment of a company in which the Belgian state and Engie would each have a 50% stake in the ongoing operation of the nuclear plants. However, specific financial details, cost allocation, and potential support mechanisms were not included in the initial deal. Photo by Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer), Wikimedia commons.