Mathieu Bihet, Belgium's federal minister of energy, is discussing the potential extension of seven nuclear reactors in the country.

The government's roadmap aims to achieve an extension of four gigawatts from these reactors.

To support this initiative, the government plans to collaborate with Arizona for investment and the development of new nuclear models, pending validation from the AFCN.

Bihet emphasizes the necessity to enhance certain reactor standards based on findings from the Federal Agency for Nuclear Control (AFCN).

Belgium currently operates three reactors at Tihange and four at Doel, which have equivalent production capacities, although their conditions differ.

While some reactors have been dismantled and are inactive, reactivating them could incur significant costs.

In light of potential energy rationing for the upcoming winter, Bihet highlights a reserve of 650 megawatts, supplemented by 1,800 megawatts from nuclear energy, underscoring the country's reliance on nuclear power to prevent shortages.

He further states that without nuclear energy, Belgium's energy situation would be dire, reinforcing its critical role in the national energy strategy.

Theoretically, the use of nuclear energy in Belgium could extend until 2100, contingent upon operational readiness and regulatory approval.