The Belgian non-profit organization ASBL 100 TWh has announced its intention to appeal to the Council of State in an effort to save the Tihange nuclear power plant. This legal action comes after the organization previously protested against the demolition of the cooling towers of Tihange 1 and 2, as reported by L'Echo. This move underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the future of nuclear energy in Belgium.
What is happening
ASBL 100 TWh has formally filed an appeal with the Council of State. The objective is to prevent the planned decommissioning of the Tihange nuclear power plant, specifically units Tihange 1 and Tihange 2. The organization had previously opposed the permit applications for the demolition of these reactor components. This new legal procedure could have significant implications for energy planning and Belgium's energy independence.
Legal battle over nuclear energy
The struggle over the Tihange nuclear power plant and other Belgian nuclear facilities, such as Doel, has been ongoing for some time. Various environmental organizations and citizen initiatives advocate for a rapid phase-out of nuclear energy, while proponents, including ASBL 100 TWh, emphasize the crucial role of these plants for the national energy supply. The Council of State will now have to thoroughly examine the arguments presented by the ASBL and the government.
Background
The Tihange nuclear power plant, located near Huy in the province of Liège, is one of two operational nuclear power plants in Belgium. The closure of the oldest reactors, Tihange 1 and 2, is part of Belgium's nuclear phase-out policy. This policy aims for a complete phasing out of nuclear energy by a certain date, although there are regular discussions about its feasibility and impact on energy security. The Belgian government, the Federal Agency for Nuclear Control (FANC), and operator Engie Electrabel are closely involved in these matters.
According to L'Echo, ASBL 100 TWh, which had previously opposed the demolition of the Tihange 1 and 2 towers during the urban planning permit application, is now taking the case to the Council of State.
What this means for Belgium
This step by ASBL 100 TWh could potentially delay or at least scrutinize Belgium's nuclear phase-out plans. If the Council of State rules in favor of the ASBL, it could have far-reaching consequences for Belgium's energy supply and environmental objectives. An extension of Tihange's lifespan could reduce pressure on the development of alternative energy sources, but at the same time reignite political discussions about nuclear waste and safety. This is a crucial moment for Belgian energy policy, where both economic and ecological aspects will have to be carefully weighed by the competent authorities.