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Belgium Reverses Nuclear Phase-Out with Historic State Takeover
In a dramatic policy reversal, Belgium has announced plans to nationalize all seven of its nuclear reactors from French energy giant Engie, suspending all decommissioning activities and aiming to restart previously closed units. Prime Minister Bart De Wever confirmed on April 30, 2026, that the government has entered exclusive negotiations with Engie for a full takeover of the country's nuclear fleet, including the Doel and Tihange power plants, with a target agreement by October 1, 2026.
The move marks the end of Belgium's two-decade-long nuclear phase-out policy, which was formally repealed by parliament in May 2025. Belgium now joins a growing list of European nations — including the Netherlands, Sweden, and France — that are reconsidering nuclear energy as a cornerstone of energy security and climate goals. The European nuclear energy revival has gained momentum amid geopolitical tensions and soaring energy prices.
What the Takeover Entails
The Letter of Intent signed between the Belgian State (BEGOV), ENGIE S.A., and Electrabel NV/SA covers the acquisition of all seven pressurized water reactors: four at Doel in East Flanders and three at Tihange in Wallonia. The deal includes all associated personnel, subsidiaries, assets, and liabilities — crucially, the costly decommissioning obligations that Engie had previously budgeted for.
Currently, only two reactors remain operational: Doel 4 and Tihange 3, whose operating licenses were recently extended until 2035. The other five reactors were progressively shut down between 2022 and 2025 as the phase-out law took effect. Under the new plan, the government intends to keep these two reactors running beyond 2035 and explore restarting the recently closed units.
All ongoing dismantling and decommissioning works have been halted immediately to preserve the option of restarting these reactors. The government will conduct a comprehensive due diligence review before finalizing the deal.
Why Belgium Changed Course
Energy Security Crisis
The 2022 energy crisis triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine exposed Belgium's vulnerability as it became a net electricity importer after years of being a net exporter. With electricity prices soaring by over 50% and inflation reaching 4% in April 2026 — partly driven by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and Middle East instability — the need for affordable, domestically controlled baseload power became urgent.
"This is a coherent political vision for cheaper, reliable energy and strategic autonomy," said Energy Minister Mathieu Bihet. "We are moving away from ideological dogmas toward a pragmatic, resilient energy model."
Economic Arguments
According to a report by the Radiant Energy Group, restarting recently closed reactors like Tihange 1 could cost just €350–500 million and take 1–2 years — far cheaper than the estimated €24 billion for building new reactors. Restarting all five closed units could cost €3–4 billion total, generating roughly €60 billion in revenue over twenty years at competitive electricity prices of around €65/MWh, compared to current gas prices of ~€140/MWh.
The economic benefits of nuclear energy are driving similar policy shifts across Europe.
Political and Public Support
The Belgian parliament voted overwhelmingly on May 15, 2025, to repeal the 2003 phase-out law, with 102 votes in favor, 8 against, and 31 abstentions. The Arizona coalition government, formed in February 2025 without green parties, championed the repeal. Public opinion has also shifted: 71% of Belgians now support extending nuclear power, according to recent polling.
"The original phase-out law was an aberration that is now relegated to history," said Serge Dauby, Managing Director of the Belgian Nuclear Forum.
However, opposition remains. Green parties have criticized the unknown costs of the takeover and potential safety risks of operating ageing reactors. The safety of ageing nuclear reactors continues to be a subject of debate in Belgium and across Europe.
Technical Feasibility and Timeline
Experts see no insurmountable technical barriers to restarting the closed reactors. Tihange 1, which shut down in 2023, could return to service within one to two years. The government has set an ambitious target of 8 GW of nuclear capacity by 2035, up from the current ~2 GW from the two operational units.
The negotiations between the Belgian State and Engie are structured in phases:
- April 30, 2026: Letter of Intent signed, exclusive negotiations begin
- May–September 2026: Due diligence and detailed negotiations
- October 1, 2026: Target date for heads of terms agreement
- 2027–2028: Potential restart of first closed reactors
Engie, which has been shifting its focus toward renewables, has expressed willingness to exit nuclear operations in Belgium. The company confirmed that the Letter of Intent is non-binding and that completion remains subject to definitive agreements and regulatory approvals.
Broader European Context
Belgium's nuclear U-turn is part of a wider European trend. Eleven EU countries backed a nuclear energy declaration in 2024, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called phasing out nuclear a "strategic mistake." Germany remains committed to its phase-out, though public support for a reversal is growing.
The global nuclear energy policy trends suggest that more countries may follow Belgium's example as energy security concerns intensify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Belgium nationalizing its nuclear reactors?
Belgium aims to secure affordable, reliable, and low-carbon electricity while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. The 2022 energy crisis and geopolitical tensions highlighted the risks of relying on energy imports, prompting a reversal of the 2003 phase-out policy.
How many nuclear reactors does Belgium have?
Belgium has seven nuclear reactors: four at Doel in East Flanders and three at Tihange in Wallonia. Currently, only Doel 4 and Tihange 3 are operational, with licenses extended to 2035. The other five were shut down between 2022 and 2025.
How much will the takeover cost?
No financial details have been disclosed yet. However, restarting the five closed reactors is estimated to cost €3–4 billion, far less than building new reactors (estimated at €24 billion). The transaction value will be determined during due diligence.
Is it safe to restart old nuclear reactors?
Experts from the Radiant Energy Group found no insurmountable technical barriers to restarting the closed reactors. Belgium's nuclear regulator (FANC) will conduct thorough safety assessments before any restart. The reactors are pressurized water reactors of proven design, similar to many operating worldwide.
When will the closed reactors restart?
If the takeover is finalized by October 2026, the first reactor (likely Tihange 1) could restart within 1–2 years, potentially by 2028. The government aims for 8 GW of nuclear capacity by 2035.
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