Belgian Nuclear Future: Engie Signals Potential for Lifespan Extensions Beyond 2035

Brussels – ENGIE, the French energy giant, is signaling a potential shift in its long-term strategy for its nuclear power plants in Belgium, Doel 4 and Tihange 3. After previously planning to phase out nuclear energy by 2035, the company is now open to discussing extending the operational lifespan of these key facilities beyond that date, contingent on a stable financial framework from the Belgian government.

Shifting Stance on Nuclear Extension

For some time, ENGIE had been preparing for the eventual decommissioning of its nuclear reactors in Belgium. However, recent statements from CEO Catherine MacGregor indicate a willingness to reconsider this position. MacGregor described discussions with the Belgian government as “forlopig positief” (preliminarily positive), publicly acknowledging the possibility of a novel agreement regarding the plants’ future. [BusinessAM]

This change in attitude is largely driven by growing concerns within the Belgian government regarding energy security after 2035. The potential loss of these two nuclear plants raises questions about maintaining a reliable energy supply for the country.

Financial Stability as a Key Condition

While ENGIE is now open to exploring extensions, a crucial condition remains: a “stable, clear and predictable framework” for the financial provisions required for the eventual dismantling of the plants. ENGIE currently has €8.7 billion reserved for decommissioning, but reports suggest an additional €3 billion may be necessary. [BusinessAM] The company seeks assurance that the financial burden will be managed effectively.

Recent Reactor Restarts and Previous Agreements

This potential extension follows the successful restarts of both Doel 4 and Tihange 3 in 2025, after undergoing major overhauls. These restarts, completed within the planned timeframe, added 2 GW of reliable baseload power to Belgium’s energy grid. [Tractebel-Engie]

The current operational extension of these reactors, secured through an agreement with the Belgian government in March 2025, allows for a 10-year extension and similarly transferred responsibility for nuclear waste management to the government. [ENGIE Newsroom] The first installment related to the transfer of responsibility for nuclear waste was paid upon the agreement’s closure, with a second installment due after the reactors’ restart in November 2025. [ENGIE Newsroom]

Upcoming Discussions and Potential Outcomes

Prime Minister De Wever is scheduled to meet with ENGIE this week to discuss the possibility of a nuclear revival. [BusinessAM] The outcome of these discussions will be critical in determining the future of nuclear energy in Belgium. ENGIE has indicated a willingness to conduct a feasibility study assessing the economic, operational, and safety aspects of extending the reactors’ lifespan, but only with the necessary financial guarantees in place.