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Reflecto News | European Energy | Nuclear Policy
BRUSSELS — In a historic reversal of its long-standing phase-out policy, Belgium has entered exclusive negotiations to fully nationalize its entire nuclear fleet from the French energy giant Engie, aiming to secure long-term energy stability and low-carbon supply.
The surprise announcement, made in a joint statement on Thursday, reveals that the Belgian state and Engie have signed a Letter of Intent to negotiate the acquisition of all seven reactors (Doel 1-4 and Tihange 1-3), including all associated personnel, subsidiaries, assets, and liabilities.
Pending the outcome of these negotiations, all ongoing decommissioning and dismantling work at the plants has been immediately suspended.
⚛️ A Complete Reversal of Nuclear Exit
This move represents a dramatic shift away from the 2003 law that mandated a gradual exit from nuclear power, which was only partially reversed in 2022 when Belgium extended the life of two reactors (Doel 4 and Tihange 3) until 2035 to cope with the energy crisis caused by the Ukraine war.
The new strategy goes far beyond that extension. Instead of merely keeping two reactors running, the government wants direct state control over all seven reactors—including the five that have already been shut down between 2022 and 2025.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever confirmed the dramatic course correction on social media:
“The government is opting for secure, affordable and sustainable energy. With less dependence on fossil fuel imports and more control over our own supply.”
— Bart De Wever, Prime Minister of Belgium
Federal Energy Minister Mathieu Bihet added that this initiative is part of a “coherent political vision” to “guarantee affordable, manageable and decarbonized energy, while strengthening Belgium’s strategic autonomy and sovereignty.”
💼 The “All-In” Scope of the Nationalization
The negotiations are not just about the physical infrastructure. The Belgian state is seeking to acquire the entire nuclear ecosystem currently under Engie/Electrabel control.
The proposed “Transaction” includes:
- Physical Assets: All 7 reactors (Doel & Tihange) and the Doel 5 site (primed for future new builds).
- Personnel: All staff currently employed in the nuclear division.
- Financials: All associated assets and liabilities, crucially including the obligations for future decommissioning and waste management.
- Subsidiaries: Full ownership of nuclear-related subsidiaries.
Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem confirmed that a full due diligence audit is being launched immediately to assess the value and risks of the aging fleet.
⏸️ Why the “Decommissioning Pause” is Critical
The suspension of dismantling work is a tactical necessity for the government. By halting demolition immediately, Belgium retains the option to restart reactors that have already been taken offline, specifically Tihange 1.
According to reports in De Standaard, key control equipment at Tihange 1 was scheduled for removal in the coming weeks. This agreement halts that process, effectively leaving the reactors in a state where they could be revived if the technical and safety reviews are positive.
Belgium will compensate Engie for costs already incurred for decommissioning work during the negotiation period.
⚡ Financial and Political Stakes
The Cost Dispute
The negotiations are overshadowed by a significant financial dispute. Engie reportedly disputes government projections that the total cost of dismantling Belgium’s nuclear legacy will be nearly €3 billion higher than the €8.7 billion already set aside for the work.
Market Value
Financial details have not been disclosed, but observers note that the aging reactors (built in the 1970s and 80s) have limited market value. The primary value for the state lies in retaining the skilled workforce, the Doel 5 expansion site, and the ability to control electricity prices directly.
Political Context
The move is spearheaded by Prime Minister Bart De Wever (N-VA), whose government has pushed a pro-nuclear agenda. While there is broad consensus on energy security, green parties have criticized the enormous long-term liability of radioactive waste management that the state is assuming.
🗓️ Timeline and Next Steps
The parties have set an ambitious deadline:
- Immediate: Suspension of all dismantling works.
- Due Diligence: The State will conduct a full audit of Engie’s nuclear activities.
- 1 October 2026: Target date to conclude “heads of terms” (principal conditions of the transaction).
Even after a deal is struck, the final transaction requires regulatory approval, including from the Federal Agency for Nuclear Control (FANC).
📊 Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| The Strategy | Nationalization of all 7 reactors (Doel & Tihange) from Engie. |
| Action | Immediate halt of all decommissioning works to preserve restart options. |
| Motivation | Secure low-carbon energy, reduce fossil fuel imports, strategic sovereignty. |
| Timeline Target | Heads of terms by 1 October 2026. |
| Fleet Status | 2 reactors operational (Doel 4, Tihange 3); 5 reactors offline (but not dismantled). |
| Liabilities | State assumes full financial responsibility for waste and dismantling. |
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