Nuclear market in Belgium

Belgium has a long and complex relationship with nuclear energy. New leadership is bringing nuclear to the forefront of energy discussions in Belgium. The new federal government aims for 8 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear energy, through: 

  • the extension of 4 GW in existing reactors 
  • the construction of 4 GW in new nuclear facilities

It is still uncertain how this ambition will translate in terms of nuclear infrastructure and timelines.  

Key opportunities for Canadian nuclear companies in Belgium

Belgium and its nuclear actors are interested in cooperating with like-minded countries. 
  • Decarbonization and energy security:  Belgium’s dense population, large industrial sector, and limited access to renewable energy resources make nuclear power a crucial component of its energy transition. As the country seeks to reduce carbon emissions and ensure a stable energy supply, innovative nuclear solutions will be in demand. 
  • Collaboration in advanced nuclear technologies: Belgium has a well-established nuclear sector with active research and development (R&D) initiatives. Opportunities exist for Canadian companies in key areas such as small modular reactor (SMR) development, nuclear facility decommissioning, medical radioisotope production, and nuclear waste management.
  • Strong R&D partnerships: Belgium is home to leading nuclear research institutions and organizations, providing Canadian firms with opportunities to collaborate on cutting-edge nuclear technologies, safety advancements and regulatory frameworks.  

Industry highlights

Belgian stakeholders are active in the development of 3rd and 4th generation SMRs.

42.2% of Belgian electricity in 2024 was supplied by nuclear power.

In March 2025, Belgium has 4 operation nuclear reactors. Only 2 will be operational from 2026 onwards. 

The new Belgian government has announced its 4+4 GW nuclear strategy.  

Notable challenges for Canadian nuclear companies in Belgium

  • Uncertain regulatory environment: Since 2003, Belgium has had a law mandating a phase-out of nuclear power, creating uncertainty for new investments. However, the newly formed Arizona coalition government, in office since February 5, 2025, plans to reverse this phase-out policy through its 4+4 GW strategy (no timeline yet): 
    • Repealing the 2003 nuclear phasing out law to allow new nuclear developments. 
    • Extending the lifespan of existing nuclear reactors that meet the safety standards. 
    • Exploring the construction of new nuclear reactors, mixing both traditional and new SMR nuclear reactors. 
  • Complexity of new nuclear project development: launching new nuclear initiatives in Belgium is particularly challenging due to: 
    • The time and resource-intensive nature of nuclear projects. 
    • The absence of state-owned utility to finance new reactors, requiring private investment. Engie-Electrabel, the current nuclear reactors operators, has announced its intention to stop any nuclear activities starting 2035. 
    • Limited available locations for potential new nuclear sites. 
  • Strict performance expectations: Canadian companies must demonstrate their ability to meet deadlines and budgets, as well as their expertise in nuclear waste management and in ensuring the safety of the nuclear installations, to build trust with Belgian partners.  

Belgium business landscape

Belgium faces significant decarbonization challenges due to its dense population, large industrial base, and limited access to renewable energy resources. Despite the long-standing 2003 nuclear phase-out law, nuclear energy has regained strong political and public support in response to: 

  • the need for reliable and low-carbon energy supply 
  • rising energy costs and market volatility, exacerbated by the war in Ukraine  

Belgium is currently dependent on fossil fuels, importing notably oil and natural gas. The new Arizona government wants to decarbonize its energy mix with nuclear, renewable and carbon capture technologies.  

Summary

Belgium currently has four operational nuclear reactors, but only two are set to remain operational beyond 2025, despite increasing electricity demands. The country is actively investing in next-generation SMR technologies. Key industry developments include: 

  • SCK CEN, Belgium’s nuclear research center, is working with European partners on fourth-generation SMRs, supported by government funding 
  • Tractebel, a Belgian engineering company, is developing a third-generation SMR modelBelgium is also aiming at positioning itself in niche sectors, such as nuclear reactor decommissioning and dismantling 

The June 2024 federal elections placed nuclear power at the center of Belgium's energy debate. The new federal Arizona government aimsto: 

  • repeal the 2003 nuclear phase-out law  
  • extend reactor lifespans 
  • increase nuclear power’s share in electricity mix to 8 GW 

For more information on the Belgian nuclear sector, please contact alexane.hervy@international.gc.ca  

Additional Information

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