EU Commission opens investigation into extension of Belgian nuclear reactors

The European Commission has opened an investigation to assess whether public support that Belgium plans to grant for the lifetime extension of two nuclear reactors is in line with EU state aid rules.

By law, the Belgian nuclear park had long been scheduled to shut down in 2025. But in a bid to preserve the security of electricity supply while keeping carbon intensity as low as possible, Belgium plans to extend the lifetime of the Doel 4 and Thiange 3 reactors for another 10 years. Global energy company Engie is now working on this extension but the partnership between the company and the Belgian state might be breaking EU rules. 

On Monday, the European Commission opened an investigation into Belgium’s plans for the nuclear plants. The country’s support measures might not be compatible with European state aid rules. Among other things, the Commission questions the creation of the joint venture between Belgium and Engie subsidiary Electrabel and its financing, as well as the operating cash flow guarantee and a 580 million euros loan.

The opening of the investigation gives Belgium and interested third parties an opportunity to submit comments. 

^{The Tihange nuclear cooling tower © BELGA PHOTO POOL SERCH CARRIERE}