Belgium's renewable energy production declines for first time since 2016
Belgium's Renewable Energy Production Declines in 2024
In 2024, Belgium experienced a decrease in renewable energy production for the first time since 2016. According to the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E), the country's total electricity production fell to its lowest in six years. This decline was primarily due to reduced nuclear production and limited operation of gas-fired power stations.
In 2024, Belgium's total electricity consumption was 81 terawatt-hours. Of this, 88% was sourced from domestic production, a decrease from 98% in 2023, with the remaining 12% being imported. Nuclear energy remained the largest source of electricity, accounting for 42% of production, although it continued to decline annually.
Wind energy's share decreased by 11% compared to 2023, affected by heavy rainfall and low wind conditions. However, solar energy reached a record high, contributing 12% to the overall production. Gas-fired power stations operated at their lowest level in a decade, as importing electricity from France and the Netherlands proved more cost-effective.
Doubts Revealed
Belgium
Belgium is a small country in Europe known for its chocolates, waffles, and being the headquarters of the European Union.
Renewable Energy
Renewable energy comes from natural sources that can be replenished, like sunlight, wind, and water. It is considered better for the environment than energy from fossil fuels.
Nuclear Output
Nuclear output refers to the electricity produced by nuclear power plants, which use nuclear reactions to generate energy.
Gas-fired Power Station
A gas-fired power station is a facility that generates electricity by burning natural gas, which is a fossil fuel.
Terawatt-hours
A terawatt-hour is a unit of energy equal to one trillion watts used for one hour. It is used to measure large amounts of electricity.
Wind Energy
Wind energy is electricity generated by using wind turbines that capture the wind's power.
Solar Energy
Solar energy is electricity generated by capturing sunlight using solar panels.
Imports from France and the Netherlands
Imports in this context mean buying electricity from neighboring countries like France and the Netherlands, which can sometimes be cheaper than producing it locally.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *