Belgian nuclear operator Engie Electrabel has called on the country’s government to take a decision by the end of 2020 on the potential long-term operation of the Tihange-3 and Doel-4 nuclear power stations beyond 2025.

Electrabel said in a statement on its website that it has notified Belgian authorities of the need to prepare for lifetime extensions at the two units.

The company said extending the operation of Tihange-3 and Doel-4 “is only possible when certain legal, financial and technical constraints are taken into account, which require a decision [from the government] by the end of 2020 at the latest.”