The Belgian Nuclear Forum (BNF) has welcomed the launch of exclusive negotiations between the Belgian State and French multinational energy company ENGIE for the potential acquisition of all nuclear activities currently operated by ENGIE and its subsidiary Electrabel in Belgium.
The announcement follows the signing of a Letter of Intent covering Belgium's complete nuclear fleet of seven reactors, along with associated personnel, subsidiaries, assets and liabilities, including decommissioning obligations. Pending the outcome of negotiations, dismantling and decommissioning activities will be suspended to preserve all future options.
BNF described the move as a strategic and forward-looking decision that reinforces energy security, competitiveness and long-term sustainability. According to the organisation, the initiative reflects a renewed political commitment to maintaining and potentially expanding nuclear energy in Belgium, while strengthening national control over energy supply and supporting future nuclear development.
BNF also highlighted that the decision aligns with public support for nuclear energy and provides renewed confidence in the sector, opening the door to extending existing reactors and developing new nuclear capacity in the coming decades.
The negotiations, which are expected to progress towards an agreement by October 2026, are part of Belgium’s broader strategy to secure a stable, low-carbon and sovereign energy system for the long term.
The Belgian Nuclear Forum is the main federation representing the country’s nuclear sector, bringing together companies, research centres and institutions involved in nuclear energy and its applications, from electricity generation to medicine and research.