The current state of electricity consumption in Belgium, spanning from September 2025 to August 2026, shows a diverse energy mix. More than half of Belgium's electricity, approximately 53%, is sourced from low-carbon energy, underscoring the country's commitment to a cleaner energy future. This includes contributions from nuclear power at around 14%, wind energy at 18%, and solar power at almost 15%, with biofuels and hydropower providing smaller fractions. On the other hand, fossil fuels account for about 24% of the energy mix, with gas being the predominant source at 20%. Net imports make up a significant portion as well, at nearly 23%, reflecting Belgium’s reliance on external electricity to meet its demand.

Is Electricity Growing in Belgium?

Despite the current makeup, Belgium's electricity consumption isn't growing; it has experienced a notable decline. As of 2026, the total electricity consumption per person stands at 6519 kWh, which is a significant decrease from its previous high of 9079 kWh in 2006. The shift is even more pronounced in low-carbon electricity generation, where figures have dropped from the record 6094 kWh per person in 2021 to 3451 kWh. Such reductions highlight a concerning trend, especially as global demand for clean electricity grows to support electrification and mitigate climate change impacts.

Suggestions

To address these challenges, Belgium should focus on expanding its low-carbon electricity generation, particularly in existing areas like nuclear, wind, and solar power. Learning from regions such as France and Slovakia where nuclear energy contributes over 60% to electricity generation could provide valuable insights into scaling up nuclear capacity effectively. Additionally, Belgium could benefit by emulating countries like Denmark and Iowa, where wind power comprises more than 50% of the energy mix, to enhance its wind energy sector. Simultaneously, drawing inspiration from Nevada and California, where solar energy contributes 31-35%, could bolster solar energy advancements, positioning Belgium to meet future electricity demands sustainably.

History

Reflecting on Belgium's history of low-carbon electricity, significant strides were made in nuclear energy generation throughout the late 20th century. During the 1980s, Belgium experienced a substantial expansion in nuclear capabilities, with notable increases in 1983 and 1985. However, the country faced setbacks in the 2010s with repeated declines after a peak in 2016, suggesting inconsistent policy or infrastructure challenges. Such declines, particularly in recent years, are concerning and must be addressed to ensure that nuclear energy remains a cornerstone of Belgium’s clean power strategy. It's crucial for Belgium to refocus and accelerate its efforts to optimize nuclear and support continued growth in wind and solar sectors to secure its energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.