The Belgian government has reached a deal confirming that its existing nuclear power plants will close in 2025, while keeping up investment in nuclear power technology, public broadcasters RTBF and VRT have reported.
The seven-party coalition has wrestled for weeks on the topic, with the Greens adamant that a 2003 law setting out a nuclear exit be respected, while the French-speaking liberals favoured keeping the two newest reactors, Doel-4 and Tihange-3, in operation.
After talks through the night, a core group of ministers have settled on a compromise whereby the last existing nuclear power plant will close in 2025, the broadcasters said.
However, Belgium will invest €100m in research into future nuclear power, with emphasis on smaller modular reactors.
The seven-party coalition has wrestled for weeks on the topic, with the Greens adamant that a 2003 law setting out a nuclear exit be respected, while the French-speaking liberals favoured keeping the two newest reactors, Doel-4 and Tihange-3, in operation.
After talks through the night, a core group of ministers have settled on a compromise whereby the last existing nuclear power plant will close in 2025, the broadcasters said.
However, Belgium will invest €100m in research into future nuclear power, with emphasis on smaller modular reactors.
Want to keep reading?
Register free and get full access to NucNet for 14 days. No card required.
- Daily news briefing on the global nuclear industry
- Weekly, monthly and topical newsletters
- 24/7 coverage during nuclear incidents and safety events
- Full searchable archive, 30,000+ articles since 1991
- SMR and AMR project database
- Analysis, Focus pieces and infographics
- NucNet Style Guide for nuclear reporters and communicators
After the trial, keep a free account for a newsletter and a complimentary Plus article every two weeks. Or see our subscription plans for individuals and organisations.
See subscription options
