Belgium is on a roll lately with its renewable energy sector. Their ambitious Renewable Energy Policy is a testament to the nation’s commitment to developing sustainable energy practices. Belgium’s initiatives focus on the effective delivery of renewable energy targets. They increase energy independence at the same time that we’re addressing climate change crises. The country’s National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) for 2021-2030 serves as a cornerstone of these efforts. It enables a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to the energy transition.
Belgium has been implementing a National Recovery and Resilience Plan in parallel with the NECP. This plan would serve as a major step to rebuild the economy after COVID-19, putting an emphasis on directing investment in green energy. Hydrogen energy lies at the center of this vision. A number of regional efforts are spurring the creation of large-scale, “hub” hydrogen projects. These exciting developments are yet another example of Belgium’s commitment to a sustainable energy future and proactive leadership on climate change.
Renewable Energy Market Overview
Belgium’s renewable energy market has expanded rapidly in recent years. This rapid expansion is being propelled by intentional government policies aimed at increasing the renewables share in the national energy mix. The country’s leaders have adopted some of the world’s most ambitious renewable energy targets. The IF Climate action plan sets ambitious targets for 2030 greenhouse gas emission reductions. Belgium is going for 30% renewable energy by the end of the decade. The nation is accomplishing this by bringing together a wide variety of energies wherever possible such as wind, solar and biomass.
The implementation of Green Certificates—called Certificats Verts (CV)—has been instrumental in increasing the share of renewable energy. These certificates serve as documentation that a verifiable amount of electricity is generated by renewable energy. Energy producers can buy and sell them to increase their motivations. This innovative, market-based approach not only encourages investment in renewable technologies but allows consumers to support green energy initiatives.
Additionally, Belgium provides a strong net metering policy at the regional level within the regions of Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia. This system gives households and businesses with solar panels the ability to receive credits for the extra electricity they create. By doing so, it spurs further investment in renewable technologies and drives down energy costs for consumers.
Hydrogen Energy Focus
Understanding the role that hydrogen can play as a clean energy carrier, Belgium has adopted forward-looking hydrogen targets in their national Energy and Climate Plan (NECP). The government’s major plan for reinvigorating the country’s economy post-COVID revolves around creating a hydrogen economy. Its goals include increasing hydrogen production capacity and incorporating hydrogen within transportation and industry uses. This funding prioritizes hydrogen and advances the core objectives of the European Union. The EU is betting its future on hydrogen as a key driver of the green transition.
Many other regional hydrogen initiatives have taken shape, highlighting the Kingdom’s determination to cultivate innovation in this burgeoning sector. Flanders has already undertaken a number of demonstration projects focused on building up hydrogen infrastructure, whereas Wallonia has focused on identifying opportunities for large-scale hydrogen production. Besides creating jobs, these initiatives stimulate local economies. They further located Belgium as a frontrunner within the new hydrogen market.
Besides the regional projects listed above, Belgium plays a key role at an industrial level in a number of hydrogen developments. Public-private partnerships are being established to support research and development on hydrogen technologies. Together, these collaborations will lead to important breakthroughs in how we produce hydrogen and use it in new and exciting ways. They will cement Belgium’s place in the worldwide transition to a sustainable energy economy.
Climate Plans Across Regions
Belgium’s approach to climate action is further strengthened by comprehensive climate plans implemented across its three regions: Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia. Each region has focused its climate strategies to meet the needs of their communities and help achieve national objectives.
In Brussels, the Climate Plan seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent. Officially dubbed the Brussels Air, Climate and Energy Plan, it’s aimed at boosting air quality. The plan outlines concrete actions – along with necessary funding – to increase energy efficiency. Alongside these benefits, it gives a significant boost to renewable energy generation within city limits.
Meanwhile, Flanders recently adopted its own Climate Plan. This proposal would make a dent in carbon emissions by expanding access to public transportation and increasing energy efficiency in buildings. As a regional initiative, it greatly bolsters and supports national efforts and provides a clear roadmap for reaching climate goals.
For instance, just as Wallonia’s Climate Plan aims to reduce emissions by funding projects that foster green mobility and sustainable infrastructure creation. Belgium is a country moving forward with regional climate strategies. This is a clear indication of the depth of the country’s commitment to climate change mitigation at the local and national level.