In the year 2025, the state of electricity consumption in Belgium presents a promising picture of energy transformation toward more sustainable sources. More than half of Belgium's electricity comes from low-carbon energy sources, which include nuclear, wind, and solar power. Nuclear energy alone contributes to almost a third of the electricity mix, standing at approximately 29%. Wind and solar energies are also significant contributors, with wind power generating about 16% and solar approximately 13%. Meanwhile, fossil fuels, primarily gas, account for just over 16% of the electricity generated, which is an area ripe for reduction to enable cleaner energy transition. Net imports contribute about 12%, and biofuels and hydropower make up nearly 5% combined, reflecting a concerted shift toward green energy.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE, Eurostat, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Belgium?
Examining the trends in electricity consumption, Belgium shows a reduction from its historical highs, signaling challenges and opportunities. The recent figures indicate that electricity consumption per person stands at 6613 kWh, reflecting a significant decline from the 2006 high of 9079 kWh, which is a decrease of 2466 kWh. Interestingly, low-carbon electricity generation per person has also seen a decrease from its previous peak in 2021, dropping from 6094 kWh to 4180 kWh per person, representing a reduction of 1914 kWh. This decline in both overall and low-carbon electricity generation per person could reflect multiple factors, including economic and policy changes, which need addressing to stimulate growth and transition toward a more sustainable electricity sector.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Belgium could focus on expanding its existing nuclear, wind, and solar infrastructure. With nuclear energy already playing a significant role, taking inspiration from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power contributes substantially to electricity generation, may offer valuable insights for Belgium. Likewise, countries like Denmark and states like Iowa, with high wind energy contributions reaching around 60%, demonstrate the potential for greater utilization of wind energy. Additionally, Belgium can look toward regions like Nevada, which generates around a third of its electricity from solar power, highlighting the unexploited potential of solar energy. By learning from these successful regions, Belgium can significantly enhance its clean electricity generation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and drive forward sustainable development.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Belgium, nuclear energy has been a cornerstone with substantial development primarily in the late 20th century. In the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, nuclear electricity generation increased significantly, adding substantial capacity to Belgium's low-carbon mix. Following a period of stability, the early 21st century saw erratic changes, notably with dips in 2012 and from 2018 onwards, damaging the growth trajectory. Though the nuclear recovery in 2016 and 2019 provided short-term boosts, the persistent declines in recent years are troubling. Nevertheless, the growth in wind energy by 2023 suggests a positive diversification in Belgium’s low-carbon landscape. Strategically increasing nuclear and solar capacity alongside recent wind advancements could prove pivotal in solidifying Belgium's leadership in clean electricity generation.
