Belgium 2022

Energy Policy Review of Belgium 2022

Overview

• Country Overview: Belgium is a member of the International Energy Agency (IEA), contributing to global energy security and sustainability.
• Energy Supply and Demand: Belgium's economy was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a drop in GDP by over 5% in 2020. The economic recovery plan emphasizes accelerating the clean energy transition, focusing on sustainable mobility, energy efficiency, offshore wind, and hydrogen based on renewable energy.
• Energy and Climate Targets: Belgium aims to reduce fossil fuel dependency and increase the share of renewables. The government forecasts continued growth in fossil fuel demand until at least 2030.

Energy and Climate Policy

• Key Measures: The government is implementing policies to support the clean energy transition, including funding for sustainable mobility, energy efficiency, offshore wind, and hydrogen.
• Electricity Market Reform: Reforms are being implemented to improve the electricity market and ensure greater integration with neighboring countries.
• Covid-19 Response: The economic recovery plan prioritizes clean energy transition initiatives, aligning with Belgium's leadership in offshore wind.

Energy Security Overview

• Collaboration: Belgium is collaborating with the Netherlands, Germany, and France to ensure the security of gas supply as production from the Groningen field phases out.
• Infrastructure Projects: Significant progress has been made on infrastructure projects needed to support the Groningen phase-out, placing Belgium several years ahead of schedule.

Key Recommendations

• Clean Energy Transition: The report recommends accelerating the clean energy transition, focusing on renewable energy sources and energy efficiency.
• Fossil Fuel Dependency: There is a need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase the share of renewables across all sectors.
• International Cooperation: Continued support for international cooperation on energy security and integration of Europe's energy system is recommended.

Energy System Transformation

• Energy and Climate Change: Belgium needs to address energy-related CO2 emissions and develop more effective climate policies.
• Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency across sectors is crucial for meeting climate targets.
• Renewable Energy: Increasing the share of renewable energy sources, particularly in the electricity sector, is essential.
• Research, Development, and Innovation: Enhancing R&D efforts to support energy transition and innovation is recommended.

Overall, Belgium faces significant challenges in transitioning to a clean energy future while maintaining energy security. The report highlights the importance of continued policy reforms, international collaboration, and innovative solutions to achieve climate neutrality.