An agreement signed with nuclear operator Engie to extend the use of two of Belgium’s commercial nuclear reactors by 10 years will increase energy security and help in the fight against climate change, but will not be enough unless the government abolishes a 2003 law calling for the phaseout of all reactors, the Belgian Nuclear Forum said.

The Brussels-based forum said the interim agreement signed last month on Doel-4 and Tihange-3 is a significant step forward and will allow Belgium to partially align itself with its neighbouring countries in the common fight that we must wage against climate change.

“This agreement will also strengthen the security of energy supply that will be necessary to keep the lights on in the more difficult winters from 2025,” the forum said.