Around the turn of the year, the federal government spent weeks negotiating with Engie, the operator of the Belgian nuclear power plants, about the extension of the latest two nuclear power plants: Doel 4 and Tihange 3. It was eventually agreed that the power plants would be ready by November 2026 to provide electricity for years to come. to deliver.
But that did not solve the problems. In the winters of 2025 and 2026, there was still a threat of a power shortage, because the power plants would be shut down during maintenance work. A few weeks ago, the government had therefore moved forward to keep the power stations of Doel 1 and 2 and Tihange 1 open longer. Normally they would close in 2025.
But the FANC, which monitors safety in nuclear power plants, suggests an alternative route in a letter to the government. The nuclear watchdog proposes to use the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 power stations during the two uncertain winters. The planned works could be carried out during the maintenance in 2026, so that the plants can continue to run during the winter.
At the end of February it was already known that the FANC had suggested that option. But in the letter to the government, which The morning was able to look into it, it appears that there was also informal contact with owner Engie in the meantime. The company “sees this as an opportunity to carry out this scenario, provided that the new nuclear fuel will be available.”
According to the FANC, the government’s earlier plan is particularly difficult. In any case, Engie Electrabel does not like the extension of the three older power stations. According to them, it is highly uncertain whether those reactors can meet the most modern safety regulations. The FANC agrees with them: the concerns about safety are justified. “The alternative scenario is preferred in terms of nuclear safety,” it sounds.
The government will take the plunge at an extra meeting of the core cabinet on Monday. Perhaps they follow the analysis of the FANC. Although that is not certain. A government source points out that the new plan makes extending the lifespan of the youngest power stations a lot more complex. It must be ensured that no new problem arises after the two problem winters.
On a political level, the FANC scenario would certainly be a boost for the Greens. The extension of the three older power stations was a symbolic sacrifice for them, because it made the nuclear exit seem completely dead and buried.
