Electricity in Belgium in 2024

In 2024, Belgium's electricity mix is predominantly composed of low-carbon sources, with more than two-thirds of its electricity coming from such clean technologies. This includes nuclear energy, which alone accounts for over a third of Belgium's electricity generation. Wind power makes up almost a sixth, and solar contributes over a tenth to the national grid. Among the fossil sources, gas is the most utilized, providing just over 16% of the electricity. There are significant imports, amounting to more than one-tenth of the electricity supply, which indicates a reliance on external sources to meet energy needs. Considering these figures, Belgium already demonstrates a strong commitment to low-carbon electricity, though further efforts could enhance sustainability and energy independence.

Suggestions

To further increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Belgium can expand existing nuclear capacities, learning from countries like France where over two-thirds of electricity is derived from nuclear power. Lessons can also be drawn from Denmark and Ireland, which have effectively leveraged wind power, accounting for 52% and 32% of their electricity, respectively. Additionally, Belgium could look to Lebanon's substantial integration of solar energy into their grid, which comprises nearly a third of their electricity mix. By prioritizing investments in these clean technologies, Belgium can enhance its energy security and reliability while contributing positively to the fight against climate change and reducing air pollution.

History

Historically, nuclear energy has played a significant role in Belgium's electricity landscape, particularly since the late 20th century. In the mid-1970s and throughout the 1980s, there were noteworthy increases in nuclear electricity generation, marked by substantial annual increases such as 6.6 TWh in 1975 and 8.4 TWh in 1983. In the late 1990s, this growth continued, albeit at a slower pace. However, in the 2010s, there were notable declines in nuclear output due to various challenges, including a sharp decrease of 13.6 TWh in 2018. Despite these reductions, there have been periods of resurgence, such as in 2016 and 2019, when nuclear production rebounded significantly. Meanwhile, from 2020 onwards, both wind and solar have seen growth, complementing an extensive history of nuclear development. This history illustrates the potential for Belgium to further harness nuclear, wind, and solar energy to build a cleaner and more resilient electricity system.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources