|
Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out Amid Energy Concerns
2025-05-16 10:30:09
Energie
Europe
Climate Change

Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out Amid Energy Concerns

Image used under license from Shutterstock.com

Belgium has reversed its plans to phase out nuclear power, extending the operation of existing nuclear reactors and planning new constructions. The decision, supported by a significant majority in the Belgian Parliament, shifts the previous 2025 phase-out deadline to 2035. This change is driven by energy security concerns and the ongoing Ukraine conflict, which has heightened the need for stable power sources.

Prime Minister Bart De Wever's government argues that nuclear energy is crucial for meeting EU climate goals. However, the decision has sparked criticism, especially from Germany, due to safety issues at Belgian plants like Tihange, which have been under scrutiny for technical deficiencies.

Despite these concerns, Belgium joins other European nations reconsidering nuclear energy as they navigate energy crises. The move contrasts with Germany's steadfast commitment to its nuclear phase-out, underscoring differing national strategies in addressing energy security and climate commitments.

Related news on that topic:

Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out Amid Energy Crisis

Belgium has reversed its nuclear phase-out plan, with the national parliament voting in favor of extending the operation of existing nuclear reactors. This move, led by the government under Bart De Wever, aims to secure energy supply amidst the crisis exacerbated by the Ukraine conflict. The decision allows the continued operation of the four reactors, located at Doel and Tihange, which were initially set for decommissioning this year. In addition to extending the lifespan of these reactors, Belgium plans to commission new nuclear facilities. This shift is part of a broader strategy to meet EU climate targets by increasing the share of nuclear energy, which is considered a CO2-free source. The energy crisis has prompted several European countries, including France, Sweden, and Italy, to revisit nuclear energy as a viable option. Belgium's Energy Minister Mathieu Bihet has initiated discussions with Engie, the French energy company operating the reactors, to negotiate further operation agreements. Despite Engie's previous reluctance, the country's strategic pivot underscores the growing importance of nuclear energy in Europe's future energy landscape.

Challenges and Progress in Germany's Wind Energy Sector

Germany's wind energy sector has faced significant challenges recently, with the first quarter of 2025 being the least windy in over 50 years. This has led to reduced wind energy outputs, notably in regions like Saxony and Thuringia, affecting electricity prices and prompting plans for new gas-fired power plants to secure energy supply. Despite this setback, investments in renewable energies continue, with companies like Mibrag focusing on long-term strategies and technological advancements. In Schleswig-Holstein, the number of wind turbine permits dropped from 241 in 2023 to 204 in 2024, though the state maintains one of the fastest approval processes in Germany. This highlights the need for stable regulatory frameworks to support the energy transition. Meanwhile, Niedersachsen achieved a milestone by producing more renewable energy than it consumed, setting a record in green electricity generation. Over three-quarters of its electricity came from renewable sources, underscoring its contribution to Germany's climate goals. The energy giant RWE also experienced a profit decline due to weak wind conditions but remains committed to expanding its offshore wind capacity. These developments reflect both the challenges and progress in Germany's pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

Read 1 more recent news on this topic

The press radar on this topic:

zeit
16. Mai 2025 um 03:18

Energy Supply: Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out

The Belgian Parliament voted with 102 votes in favor of extending the operating life of existing nuclear reactors, while only eight deputies voted against it. The government under Prime Minister Bart De Wever also plans to build new reactors. Originally, the nuclear phase-out was scheduled for 2025, but due to the energy crisis and security concerns in the context of the Ukraine war, this has been postponed by ten years. In Germany, there are concerns about the Belgian nuclear power plants, wh..
Deutsche Welle
16. Mai 2025 um 07:31

Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out

The Belgian Parliament has voted by a majority to extend the operating lifetimes of existing nuclear power plants and to build new reactors. This marks a U-turn in Belgium's nuclear policy, which originally envisaged a nuclear phase-out by 2025. The government justifies this step with climate protection and the goal of achieving the EU climate targets. In Germany, the Belgian decision is met with criticism, as the Tihange power plant in particular, which is located near the German border, has..
stern
16. Mai 2025 um 05:23

Fear for Energy Supply: Belgium Fails to Exit Nuclear Power

Belgium has voted by a large majority against the planned nuclear phase-out and is planning to extend the operation of existing reactors as well as construct new nuclear power plants. The decision of the parliament reflects growing concerns about energy supply, especially in the context of the Ukraine war. Originally, the nuclear phase-out was scheduled for 2025, but the government under Prime Minister Bart De Wever has decided to postpone the shutdown until 2035. In Germany, there are concerns..
gmx
16. Mai 2025 um 05:42

Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out and Plans New Reactors

The Belgian Parliament has voted by a large majority to end the nuclear phase-out. The right-wing government also plans to build new reactors. Originally, the reactors were supposed to be shut down in 2025, but the debate has been going on for years. In view of concerns about the security of energy supply and with a view to the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, the Belgian government decided in 2022 to postpone the nuclear phase-out by ten years. The Belgian nuclear power plants from the 1..
CW

Account

Waiting list for the personalized area


Welcome!

InfoBud.news

infobud.news is an AI-driven news aggregator that simplifies global news, offering customizable feeds in all languages for tailored insights into tech, finance, politics, and more. It provides precise, relevant news updates, overcoming conventional search tool limitations. Due to the diversity of news sources, it provides precise and relevant news updates, focusing entirely on the facts without influencing opinion. Read moreExpand

Spotlighting today's most mentioned stocks in the media. Uncover the stories making waves in the stock market:

A closer look at the individuals who are leading today's news narratives. Find out what makes them the center of attention.

Exploring the five locations receiving the most media attention in the last 24 hours. Discover what puts these places in the global spotlight

Your World, Tailored News: Navigate The News Jungle With AI-Powered Precision!

News

All News
Politics
Technology
Economy
Business
Climate

About

About Us
Team + Mission

Legal

Cookie Settings
Disclaimer
Legal Notice
Data Privacy

Contact

Contact