The Energy Commission of Belgium's Chamber of ministers on Wednesday approved four legislative proposals that will enable the extension of the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 reactors.
These bills, which passed in the first reading, were prepared by Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten. They focus primarily on the 2003 nuclear phase-out law. By law, the Belgian nuclear park has long been scheduled to shut down in 2025. Wednesday's approval paves the way for special dispensations that will allow the two latest reactors to run for an additional decade.
Amendments put forward by the opposition and majority deputy Marie-Christine Marghem (MR) were dismissed. Debate around the 2003 law sparked fresh confrontation between the former Energy Minister and environmentalists.
Historically, MR has staunchly defended the extension of reactors and MP Mathieu Bihet celebrated this landmark: “We must continue this momentum to revitalise the nuclear sector in Belgium, particularly via SMRs and new reactors. Time is of the essence; the next government must act swiftly to continue on this path. Ten years is a start, not an end,” he announced.
A second reading is expected within two weeks before proceeding to the full session.
