nuclear energy
The Tihange 3 nuclear reactor unexpectedly shut down on Wednesday morning. The reason for the automatic stop was “an electrical problem with an alternator”.
The problem occurred in the non-nuclear part of the nuclear reactor, according to Engie, the operator of the nuclear power plant in the province of Liège. “There is no impact on people or the environment,” said spokeswoman Hellen Smeets.
According to an initial estimate, the nuclear reactor would be restarted on Wednesday evening, but that timing could still change. “The analyzes are still ongoing,” the spokeswoman said.
Tihange 3 is one of two nuclear reactors – together with Doel 4 – that will operate ten years longer than initially planned. The federal government and operator Engie reached a final agreement on this lifespan extension in mid-December.
