Nuclear energy faces an uncertain future in Belgium

Significance

The government is committed to closing all nuclear plants by 2025, but is struggling to secure sufficient alternative capacity ahead of a key report due in March. Concerns over security of supply, electricity prices and CO2 emissions are rising within the seven-party coalition.

Impacts

• The use of nuclear energy in other European countries will embolden those Belgian parties opposed to shutting down nuclear power.
• Public investment in small modular reactor (SMR) technology research offers some hope for the nuclear industry in Belgium.
• Belgium will struggle to cut its emissions in line with EU targets if the nation has to rely on gas turbines to offset the loss of nuclear.