Electricity in Belgium in 2023/2024

Currently, Belgium sources more than two-thirds (approximately 69%) of its electricity from low-carbon or clean energy sources. Leading this category is nuclear power, contributing over half of the low-carbon share at around 36%. Wind energy makes up about 17%, while solar energy accounts for just under 10%. Smaller contributions come from biofuels and hydropower, with each representing a little over 3%. On the other hand, fossil fuels account for about 12% of the electricity, with all of it coming from gas. Net imports, which form close to 12% of Belgium’s electricity, supplement these sources from October 2023 to September 2024.

Suggestions

To further increase its share of low-carbon electricity generation, Belgium can strengthen its efforts in expanding nuclear and wind energy capacity, as these technologies already constitute substantial portions of its energy mix. Learning from France, where 67% of electricity is derived from nuclear energy, or Slovakia with 60%, Belgium can boost its nuclear capacity. Simultaneously, resembling Denmark, which generates 61% of its electricity from wind, and Ireland and Germany, with wind accounting for 34% and 31% of their respective electricity production, Belgium can invest in both onshore and offshore wind farms. Additionally, looking at Greece and Chile, where solar power contributes around 22% and 21% respectively, Belgium can scale up its solar energy projects to enhance clean energy output further.

History

Historically, Belgium has seen notable fluctuations in its nuclear electricity generation. During the late 1970s and the 1980s, nuclear energy saw significant increases, contributing notably in years like 1975 (6.6 TWh), 1983 (8.4 TWh), and 1985 (6.9 TWh). However, from 2012 onwards, nuclear energy faced notable declines in certain years, with marked decreases such as -7.9 TWh in 2012 and -8.9 TWh in 2014. Nevertheless, there were periods of recovery; 2016 saw an increase of 17.4 TWh and 2021 added 15.9 TWh. In recent years, 2020 and beyond witnessed frequent fluctuations including a notable dip of -10.5 TWh in 2023. Parallel advancements in wind energy, particularly a 3.1 TWh increase in 2023, indicate Belgium's commitment to diversifying its low-carbon energy portfolio.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources