State aid: Commission clears Belgian support to long-term operation of three nuclear power reactors Tihange 1, Doel 1 and Doel 2

On 17 March 2017 the European Commission found Belgian plans to compensate Engie-Electrabel and EDF Belgium for potential financial risks linked to long-term operation of three nuclear reactors to be in line with EU state aid rules.

In September 2016, the Belgian authorities notified measures related to the prolongation of the operational lifetime of three nuclear reactors (Tihange 1, Doel 1 and Doel 2) to the Commission for assessment under EU state aid rules.

Under the EU Treaties, Member States are free to determine their energy mix and have the choice to invest in nuclear technology. The Commission's role is to ensure that, when public funds are used to support companies, this is done in line with EU state aid rules, which aim to preserve competition in the Single Market.

ESO: Background information: Belgian nuclear reactors get ten extra years of life http://www.europeansources.info/record/belgian-nuclear-reactors-get-ten-extra-years-of-life/

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