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European Commission opens investigation into the extension of the lifespan of Belgian nuclear reactors

by AI | 23.Jul 2024 | Europe in brief AI

The European Commission has launched an in-depth investigation into the state aid that Belgium wants to provide for the extension of the lifespan of the nuclear reactors Doel 4 and Tihange 3.

(Photo: JEAN-PHILIPPE KSIAZEK / AFP)

The Belgian government and Engie reached an agreement at the end of last year to extend the lifespan of the two reactors by ten years. The deal with the French energy giant reverses the planned nuclear phase-out and aims to guarantee electricity supply in Belgium for the next ten years.

The agreement includes, among other things, government participation in the reactors, a price guarantee, and arrangements for the costs of nuclear waste disposal. The Commission is reviewing all these measures as a whole. “Although the Belgian measure seems justified, the Commission at this stage doubts its compatibility with European state aid rules and has therefore decided to launch an in-depth investigation,” it said in a press release on Monday.

Outgoing energy minister Tinne Van der Straeten is not worried. According to her, the investigation is an expected step in the procedure. “This is an important and complex issue, with a CFD, a waste cap, the creation of a joint venture, etc. But Minister Van der Straeten is confident and welcomes every new step that brings us closer to the ultimate goal: the restart of the two units by the winter of 2025,” her office responded.