There is no need for additional power plants for the winter of 2026-2027

CRM stands for “capacity remuneration mechanism”. This is a subsidy mechanism introduced by the government to ensure security of supply starting in 2025. This is done through an auction system. For example, last year it was decided to build two gas-fired power plants, in Seraing and Les Awirs.

This auction takes place every year. Now it has happened. What does it look like? No additional power plants need to be built before winter 2026-2027. “Nothing was contracted,” said high voltage operator Elia, who organizes the auctions.

This is because in the winter of 2026-2027 the two new gas plants will be in operation and there will also be battery projects to store electricity. Additionally, the government says the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 nuclear power plants will normally supply power during that winter as well. The government is currently negotiating with the operator Engie for the expansion of both nuclear power plants.

Furthermore, the existing capacity is sufficient, Elia assures us, to satisfy the demand. This existing capacity will be tendered 1 year in advance in an auction. “In the end, no capacity was auctioned because the demand curve was completely covered by the expansion of two nuclear power plants, the contracted volume of the previous auction, and the existing capacity that does not want to participate yet,” said L network operator.