Energy & Science

Belgian Nuclear Exit Would Lead to More Emissions, IEA Says

  • Phaseout would likely mean greater reliance on natural gas
  • Agency sees limited progress in curbing fossil fuel use

Cooling towers at the Tihange nuclear power station in Huy, Belgium.

Photographer: Thierry Monasse/Bloomberg
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Belgium isn’t doing enough to curb its greenhouse gas emissions, a challenge highlighted by its plans to phase out nuclear energy, according to the International Energy Agency.

The country, home to many of the European Union’s major institutions, has made limited progress on reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, the IEA said in a report published on Wednesday. It called for Belgium to update its long-term plan to establish a clear commitment and path to climate neutrality by 2050.