Energy company Engie wants to reach a "global agreement" with the Federal Government on the lifespan extension of the Belgian nuclear power plants before the summer, said Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.
At the beginning of this year, the Belgian government already concluded an agreement with Engie about keeping the nuclear power plants of Doel 4 and Tihange 3 open longer. Since then, negotiations about a maximum invoice for the dismantling of the older reactors and the disposal of the nuclear waste have been ongoing.
The aim was to have a deal by mid-March, but that did not work out.
Related News
- 'Involve the people': Belgian citizens to debate disposal of radioactive waste
- Belgians are in favour of nuclear energy, survey shows
- 'Works can start tomorrow': Belgium and Engie reach deal to extend nuclear power plants
When asked about the ongoing negotiations in the Belgian Parliament on Thursday afternoon, De Croo did not elaborate on the details of the talks, but referred to a statement by his interlocutor, Engie CEO Catherine MacGregor.
At the shareholders' meeting, MacGregor spoke of "constructive negotiations" and a "global agreement before the summer," De Croo said. "I am glad she brings exactly the same message as the Belgian government."
Some of the opposition parties, however, fear that the talks are taking too long and that the power stations of Doel 4 and Tihange 3 will not be able to restart in time because Engie has not yet ordered any fuel.
