The federal Minister for Energy, Mathieu Bihet, was Martin Buxant's guest this Monday morning on BelRTL's breakfast show to take stock of our country's energy situation ahead of winter.
He pointed out that the international energy situation is worrying, but that Belgium's security of supply is not, at this stage, under threat.
The current geopolitical tensions obviously have consequences for the energy markets and prices, but Belgium is monitoring the situation closely and keeping a constant watch on how supplies are evolving.
Advantages for gas supply
Our country benefits in particular from its position as an energy hub at the heart of Europe.
Belgium imports around three times more gas than it consumes under normal conditions. A significant proportion of these volumes is then transited to other European countries.
We are also stepping up contacts with the countries that supply us with non-liquefied gas. This diversification of sources and supply routes is a major asset in the current context. At this stage, no risk of gas shortage has been identified for this winter.
Strategic reserves to cope with disruptions
The Minister recalled that Belgium also has strategic reserves of oil and petroleum products. These reserves currently represent more than 90 days' worth of imports. This acts as a safety net in the event of major disruption and a possible temporary interruption to supply.
An oil emergency plan has also been finalised to define the different levels of action and responsibilities in the event of a crisis.
A closely monitored situation
Belgium obviously has no direct control over the international crises that directly affect the energy market. However, it can anticipate their consequences.
That is why the Minister monitors developments daily with network operators and sector stakeholders. These tensions highlight the importance of a diversified and resilient energy system.
Diversifying supplies and developing other production capacities, such as nuclear power, must together help guarantee our energy security today and in the coming decades.