Electricity in Belgium in 2023/2024

Between November 2023 and October 2024, electricity consumption in Belgium has relied heavily on clean energy sources. Low-carbon energy forms, such as nuclear, wind, solar, hydropower, and biofuels, accounted for an impressive 67% of total electricity generation. Within this category, nuclear power represented more than half of the low-carbon electricity at 35%, highlighting its crucial role. Wind energy also contributed significantly with almost 16%. Net imports, which can include a mix of energy sources, added nearly 14% to the low-carbon figures. Conversely, fossil energy, primarily from gas, constituted a relatively small portion of the electricity mix, amounting to just 12%. Meanwhile, solar energy, hydropower, and biofuels had smaller shares: approximately 10%, 3%, and 3%, respectively. This demonstrates Belgium's substantial commitment to sustainable electricity.

Suggestions

Belgium can further bolster its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its nuclear and wind capabilities. These energy sources already contribute significantly to the country's clean energy portfolio, making them logical candidates for growth. Observing countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy accounts for 67% and 60% of electricity production, offers valuable insights into fully harnessing nuclear power. Similarly, lessons can be learned from Denmark, where wind energy produces 59% of the nation's electricity, considerably higher than Belgium's current share. This indicates the potential for growth in wind power as well. By emulating the strategies of these countries, Belgium can enhance its sustainable energy generation while diminishing its reliance on fossil fuels, thus mitigating climate change and reducing air pollution.

History

Examining the history of low-carbon electricity in Belgium reveals a trajectory marked by fluctuations, particularly in nuclear energy. Nuclear power first expanded notably in the mid-1970s and early 1980s, with significant increases in generation each year. The late 1990s saw more modest growth in nuclear power output. However, starting in 2012, there was a notable decline, with several years showing substantial reductions in generation. Notably, the sharp decreases in 2012, 2014, and again in 2018 posed significant setbacks. Despite this, Belgium successfully rebounded with considerable increases in nuclear output in 2016 and 2019. Recently in 2023, Belgian nuclear generation faced another decline, but wind energy continued to develop steadily, contributing around 3 TWh of additional electricity in both 2020 and 2023. These trends reinforce the importance of maintaining and advancing nuclear alongside other low-carbon technologies in Belgium.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources