On 12 August, Belgium experienced the most significant solar eclipse since 1999, with almost 90% of the sun obscured around 8:13 pm.
On this occasion, the federal Minister for Energy, Mathieu Bihet, visited Elia's control centre to closely monitor the evolution of electricity production and the stability of the Belgian grid.
The eclipse caused a temporary drop in photovoltaic production across much of Europe. In this clear-sky scenario, the drop reached up to 9.7 GW across continental Europe and around 600 MW in Belgium.
However, this does not represent a threat to security of supply. This type of phenomenon is entirely predictable and is carefully prepared for by European grid operators, electricity producers and market players.
Mathieu Bihet wishes to commend the professionalism of Elia's teams and thank them for their vigilance, preparation and commitment. Their work ensures the stability of the grid under all circumstances.
This episode reminds us of an essential reality: a modern electricity system must be able to manage rapid fluctuations in certain renewable production. This requires robust grids, flexible generation capacity and storage solutions capable of ensuring the system's balance.
For the MR, the energy transition cannot be based on improvisation or ideological choices. Mathieu Bihet advocates a pragmatic approach based on an efficient energy mix to ensure reliable, affordable and decarbonised electricity for citizens and businesses.