The MR group in the Chamber, through federal MP Mathieu Bihet, deplores the unacceptable remarks made by the CEO of Engie Belgium, Vincent Verbeke, who flatly rejects Belgium's nuclear ambitions. “We recall that it is up to the federal government to define the country's energy future, not to a company in a monopoly position guided by its own strategic interests. It is unbelievable that a company like Engie, a historic partner in nuclear energy in Belgium, should presume to dismiss political decisions taken in the interest of citizens and our country's energy independence. These statements reflect an irresponsible attitude, at a time when energy autonomy is more crucial than ever,” responds MR federal MP Mathieu Bihet
The partners of the future majority have received a very clear mandate from voters and firmly support the will to revive nuclear energy, an essential tool for ensuring a stable, affordable and decarbonised energy supply.
Nuclear power currently accounts for around 50% of Belgian electricity production and is a pillar of our energy mix. Closing the door on further extensions of reactors or the development of new projects contradicts European climate targets.
“The war in Ukraine has upended the global energy order, exposing the vulnerability of countries too dependent on gas and oil imports. Belgium must give itself the means to be energy sovereign. Relying solely on renewable energy and the “flexibility” put forward by Engie will not meet the urgent need to ensure a continuous and stable energy supply, especially given the risk of shortages.”
The MR group reminds Engie of its contractual obligations and its historic role in Belgium's energy supply. The company must honour the agreements made with the federal government, in particular the extension of the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 reactors. Furthermore, it is essential that the company stop obstructing any initiative aimed at ensuring the continuity of our nuclear infrastructure.
“We cannot accept that a monopolistic player claims to be able to limit the energy ambitions of a sovereign State under the pretext of strategic choices,” concludes Mathieu Bihet.
The MR reaffirms that Belgium's energy future is decided in Parliament, not in Engie's boardrooms.