Belgium plans to nationalise nuclear power plants

The Belgian government has announced a dramatic reversal of its energy policy, revealing plans to nationalize its fleet of seven nuclear reactors by purchasing them from French utility giant Engie. Prime Minister Bart De Wever stated that the move is essential for ensuring 'safe, affordable, and sustainable' energy security as the region faces an unprecedented fuel crisis driven by the war in Iran. The deal, which aims to be finalized by October, effectively suspends Belgium's long-standing plan to phase out nuclear power.

Only two of the seven reactors are currently operational, and their licenses were recently extended to 2035 to prevent a total energy collapse. By taking full control of the infrastructure, Belgium hopes to develop new nuclear capacity and reduce its reliance on volatile fossil fuel imports. The move follows similar shifts in strategy across Europe, where the intersection of climate goals and geopolitical instability is forcing a re-evaluation of nuclear energy as a vital component of industrial resilience and socio-economic prosperity.