France, Belgium Strengthen Nuclear Energy Cooperation

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Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--France and Belgium have signed a Declaration of Intent to deepen cooperation in nuclear energy, focusing on lifetime extensions of existing reactors, development of small modular reactors (SMRs), joint research, stronger supply chains and workforce training. The move underscores both governments' intent to link energy security with decarbonization, while reinforcing Europe's nuclear industry.

Belgium, which reversed its 2003 nuclear phase-out law in May 2025, has already extended the operational life of two reactors by 10 years, securing production until at least 2035. Its approximately 5 gigawatt (GW) nuclear fleet supplied more than 57% of Belgium's electricity in 2024, making nuclear power a critical pillar of national energy security. France, meanwhile, operates 57 reactors with more than 50 GW of capacity, accounting for nearly 70% of its power generation, and has committed to building at least six new reactors, with the option for eight more.

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