Cooperative Tihange 1

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As a result of the 2003 nuclear phase-out law, our country will soon be deprived of all its nuclear reactors. This means, as Elia predicts (see Appendix 1), that it will have to import a huge amount of electricity, and our bills will rise.

Of course, the future government brings together parties that have all campaigned in favour of extending nuclear power, and which should therefore abolish this law very quickly. However, it will be faced with Engie’s refusal to continue operating Belgium’s nuclear power stations.      

To unblock this situation, we are proposing to set up a cooperative on the model of the Finnish Mankala cooperative companies (see TVO-Articles-of-Association). This model was created to enable Finnish communities and industrialists to build their own means of energy production, without state intervention. They supply their cooperative members with electricity at cost price, according to their shares in the cooperative.

In Belgium, such a Cooperative could bring together companies and citizens who, like the big American companies, want cheap, reliable, low-carbon electricity. Although the 2003 law is still in force, this Cooperative could benefit from the changes that have enabled the Tihange3 and Doel4 reactors to be extended by 10 years.

Cooperative Society to operate Tihange1

We are proposing to create a Cooperative Society with Limited Liability (CSLL) inspired by the Finnish Mankala model, to continue operating Tihange1.

Why the Tihange1 reactor?

Firstly, because this reactor is in perfect condition and complies with all modern nuclear safety standards. It can therefore be operated for 10 years without major risks.

Secondly, because it is 50% owned by EDF/Belgium, a company that has all the skills and, above all, the determination to pursue the nuclear track. The Cooperative would therefore be associated with one of Europe’s biggest operators, and would only have to acquire half of the reactor.

Finally, the investment is still considerable for a cooperative of citizens associated with companies, but it will show that it is possible to imagine a different energy future for our country.