The Belgian government will back 21 new projects on the green energy transition, with a total budget of €25 million.
The budget comes from the Energy Transition Fund, which is alimented by the Engie nuclear tax. Last year, Engie paid €908 million in nuclear tax, which is based on the profitability margin of the company.
The fund was first launched in 2017 with the aim of supporting research, development and innovation in the energy transition. A total of 51 project proposals were received after the call was launched last November. Of these, 21 have been selected and will receive funding. The Council of Ministers is due to give the go-ahead on Friday.
“These are 21 solutions that will make us less dependent on fossil fuels and foreign countries,” says Federal Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten.
Each successful project will receive funding ranging from €100,00 to €5 million. The total amount of grants is €24.2 million.
“In our country, we have both the intelligence and the will to find solutions to future challenges. With the Energy Transition Fund, we want to create solutions”, said the Flemish green politician, emphasising that this fund will make it possible to use the expertise of businesses to accelerate the energy transition.
