Belgium’s energy strategy is evolving, and Tihange 3 is at the centre of this transformation. As part of a landmark 2023 agreement between Engie and the Belgian government, the 1,030 MWe pressurised water reactor (PWR) —commissioned in 1985—will undergo a major modernisation to extend its operational life by a decade.
Framatome has been entrusted with upgrading the reactor’s rod control system, a critical component for safe and precise power regulation. The project involves replacing legacy control cabinets with Framatome’s advanced Rodline technology, ensuring enhanced reliability and automatic failover capabilities. This upgrade is not just technical—it’s strategic. It reflects Belgium’s pivot from nuclear phase-out to long-term energy security, driven by geopolitical realities and the need for low-carbon baseload power.
The modernisation aligns with broader European trends: leveraging proven nuclear assets while integrating cutting-edge instrumentation and control systems. For professionals in the nuclear sector, this initiative underscores the growing demand for expertise in life extension programs, digital modernisation, and regulatory compliance.
As Laurent Thieffry of Framatome notes, this partnership is “part of a long-term vision,” signalling opportunities for engineers, project managers, and innovators committed to shaping a resilient, sustainable energy future.
Full press release: https://newsroom.engie.com/actualites/closing-de-laccord-entre-engie-et-le-gouvernement-belge-df4b7-ff316.html
Picture: enercore.global