Belgium Advances Compact Modular Reactor Plans with New Sites and Investment

Belgium is actively preparing for the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs), recognizing their potential to enhance energy security and affordability. Driven by the Flemish region, the country is identifying suitable locations and attracting investment for these next-generation nuclear power plants, signaling a significant shift in its energy policy following the repeal of the 2003 nuclear phase-out law.

Flanders Leads the Charge with Site Selection

The Flemish government is currently evaluating four potential locations for SMRs: the Port of Antwerp, Mol, Dessel, and Geel. This initiative, spearheaded by Minister-President Matthias Diependaele, aims to create a long-term roadmap for SMR implementation in the region. The focus is on leveraging SMRs to provide cheaper and more reliable energy, particularly for energy-intensive industries like chemicals and manufacturing.

Shift in Nuclear Policy and Extended Reactor Lifespans

Belgium’s approach to nuclear energy has undergone a notable transformation. Initially committed to phasing out nuclear power by 2025, the country reversed course in March 2022, extending the operational lifespan of two reactors – Doel 4 and Tihange 3 – by ten years. More recently, in May 2025, the Belgian parliament repealed the 2003 phase-out law altogether, paving the way for extending the licenses of existing reactors to 2045 and exploring the construction of new reactors, including SMRs.

SCK CEN and International Collaboration

The Belgian nuclear research center, SCK CEN, is at the forefront of SMR development. The organization has signed an international cooperation agreement to develop a new SMR, with testing planned at the Mol site in Antwerp Province by 2034, with commercialization anticipated by 2039. This project underscores Belgium’s commitment to nuclear innovation and its role in advancing SMR technology.

Current Nuclear Capacity and Electricity Generation

As of late 2025, Belgium operates two nuclear power plants – Doel and Tihange – with a combined net capacity of 5,761 MWe. In 2024, nuclear power accounted for 41% of the country’s electricity generation, contributing 31.3 TWh. The remainder of the electricity mix is comprised of wind (18%), natural gas (18%), solar (11%), biofuels & waste (6%), coal (3%), and hydro (2%).

Investment and Future Outlook

The Flemish investment fund PMV is exploring investment options to support SMR development. Industry players are also considering the potential of using nuclear energy for heat and hydrogen production, in addition to electricity. However, the successful deployment of SMRs will require significant investment and close collaboration between the Flemish and federal governments, as nuclear policy remains under federal control.

Key Takeaways

• Belgium is actively pursuing the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs).
• The Flemish region is leading the site selection process, identifying four potential locations.
• The country has reversed its previous nuclear phase-out policy, extending the lifespan of existing reactors and exploring new construction.
• SCK CEN is playing a key role in SMR research and development, with testing planned at the Mol site.
• Investment and collaboration between regional and federal authorities are crucial for the success of SMR projects.