Belgium moves to nationalize Engie’s seven nuclear reactors

Belgium has begun exclusive negotiations with French energy company Engie regarding a potential state takeover of all nuclear reactors operating in the country, local media reported on Thursday. The Belgian government confirmed that the talks cover all nuclear activities run by Engie and its subsidiary Electrabel, including the seven reactors at the Doel and Tihange nuclear power plant sites. As negotiations commence, authorities have ordered an immediate halt to all ongoing decommissioning and dismantling work—a significant step, as some reactors had already entered the shutdown phase.

Strategic reversal

Prime Minister Bart De Wever said the initiative reflects a broader strategy to secure “safe, affordable and sustainable energy,” with “less dependence on fossil fuel imports and more control over our own supply.” The move marks a reversal of Belgium’s previous nuclear phase-out strategy, under which most reactors were set to close, with only two units extended until 2035. Authorities are seeking greater control over long-term energy security amid concerns over electricity prices, supply resilience, and reliance on imported fossil fuels—vulnerabilities highlighted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the Iran war.

Financial and regulatory hurdles

The current agreement takes the form of a letter of intent, with both sides aiming to reach a broader deal by Oct. 1, 2026, following a full due diligence review. Any final transaction would require regulatory approval, including from the Federal Agency for Nuclear Control. Financial details have not been disclosed, but tensions have reportedly emerged between Engie and the government over dismantling costs, estimated to exceed €8.7 billion.