ENGIE reconnects Doel 4 to the electricity grid on schedule and successfully completes a main objective of the Phoenix agreements

On October 8, ENGIE safely reconnected the Doel 4 nuclear reactor to the grid after a first major overhaul. This restart follows that of Tihange 3 on July 10 of this year. Both nuclear units will now operate for an additional ten years, in line with the agreements between ENGIE and the Belgian Government.

After months of extensive preparatory works, both Tihange 3 and Doel 4 were restarted within the planned timeframe. The two units will contribute significantly to Belgium’s security of supply, providing 2 GW of reliable power for the next ten years. This achievement reflects ENGIE’s unwavering commitment to the highest safety standards and the expertise and mobilisation of its teams. 

The safe restart of Doel 4 results in the payment of the second and final instalment for the transfer of responsibility for nuclear waste and spent fuel to the Belgian Government. The two extended reactors Doel 4 and Tihange 3 are held in a joint venture owned equally by the Belgian state and ENGIE.

Vincent Verbeke, CEO of ENGIE Belgium: “The timely restart of Doel 4 and Tihange 3 confirms the competency, professionalism and commitment of the Nuclear teams at ENGIE and all our partners. With this restart, both units embark on a new decade of safe operation. ENGIE remains fully committed to accelerating the energy transition in Belgium and contributing to a reliable, affordable, and low-carbon energy system.”