Will Belgium's energy mix be reliant on imports in 2035-2050?

Belgium's existing generation facilities and already-approved investments can provide only half of what is needed in the long term. Therefore, new governments will soon have to consider the desired energy mix for the period 2035-2050 and how reliant the country is willing to be on imports.

How will Belgium's energy island contribute to the green energy transition?

The energy island will play an important role in the green energy transition for both Belgium and the broader European Union, which is why it receives substantial EU support. The project is backed by the REPowerEU initiative, which aims to reduce Europe’s reliance on fossil fuel imports and accelerate the shift to sustainable energy.

Will Belgium become more reliant on electricity imports?

If policy remains unchanged, we will see Belgium's dependence on electricity imports steadily increase, from 50-60 TWh in 2036 to 70-90 TWh in 2050. Without a long-term strategy on the future energy mix and new policy measures, Belgium will therefore become more reliant on electricity imports.

Will Belgium's dependence on electricity increase in 10 years?

However, due to the rising demand for electricity, this will no longer be sufficient in 10 years' time. If policy remains unchanged, we will see Belgium's dependence on electricity imports steadily increase, from 50-60 TWh in 2036 to 70-90 TWh in 2050.

What does Elia's next federal development plan 2028-2038 mean for Belgium?

This will be a key factor in Elia's next Federal Development Plan 2028-2038, setting out the further development of Belgium's high-voltage grid. Focusing more on far-offshore wind will require specific grid upgrades different from those associated with new nuclear power plants.

Can Belgium achieve its offshore wind ambitions in the North Sea?

Belgium can experience significant benefits, for instance, by successfully realising its offshore wind ambitions in the North Sea. Over the next few years, substantial planning and designing efforts are required to ensure the successful installation of up to 8 GW of capacity in the Belgian North Sea.