The European Commission has published its assessment of Belgium’s final updated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), acknowledging increased ambition while warning that stronger implementation efforts are still needed
NECP outlines how Belgium intends to meet its 2030 climate and energy targets, showing improvements over earlier drafts but leaving notable gaps in key areas, such as renewable energy and energy efficiency.
NECP is part of an EU-wide review released on 28 May 2025, which found that member states have made significant progress toward the bloc’s 2030 climate goals. Belgium’s updated plan contributes to this progress, but the Commission stresses that ambition must now translate into concrete action.
Emissions targets within reach
According to the Commission, Belgium is on track to meet its 2030 emissions reduction obligations under the Effort Sharing Regulation. The country aims to reduce emissions by 47% and plans to rely on available flexibility mechanisms to cover around four percentage points of that target.
While this approach is permitted, the Commission encourages Belgium to fully implement the policies set out in the plan, particularly in the transport sector, where emissions reductions remain challenging.
In the land use, land-use change, and forestry sector, Belgium performs relatively well. The country generated net removals equivalent to around 0.4% of its total greenhouse gas emissions in 2022. If current policies are properly implemented, Belgium is expected to exceed its 2030 LULUCF target, contributing positively to its overall climate performance.
Renewable energy and efficiency fall behind EU goals
Despite proactive steps to develop renewable energy technologies, Belgium’s national contribution to the EU’s 2030 renewable energy target is assessed as insufficient. The Commission highlights the absence of clear deployment trajectories for renewable technologies and forest biomass supply, making it harder to assess long-term feasibility and investment needs.
Energy efficiency is another area of concern. Belgium’s ambition to reduce primary energy consumption falls well short of the EU target. The Commission notes that projected energy savings are not sufficiently quantified and calls for a stronger legislative framework. Improving the integration of electricity, heating, and cooling networks is seen as essential to improving system efficiency and reducing overall energy demand.
Fossil fuel subsidies remain unresolved
Belgium has provided an overview of its fossil fuel subsidies, marking a step toward greater transparency. However, the plan lacks a clear and detailed timeline for phasing them out across all levels of government. The Commission encourages Belgium to develop a strong plan to eliminate these subsidies.
Energy security and innovation
NECP recognises Belgium’s efforts to strengthen energy security by diversifying gas supplies, stabilising consumption, and exploring alternatives such as nuclear power and hydrogen. Initiatives, including the extension of nuclear reactors and the examination of small modular reactors, are seen as contributing to system resilience.
Looking ahead, the Commission recommends that Belgium increase support for research and innovation in clean energy technologies. Strengthening innovation is viewed as key to boosting competitiveness, securing future energy supplies, and meeting long-term climate goals.
Turning planning into action
With updated NECPs now submitted, the focus across the EU shifts to implementation. The Commission underlines the importance of using public funds strategically to reduce investment risks, mobilise private capital, and ensure coordinated action at regional, national, and European levels.
The Commission will continue supporting member states in closing remaining gaps, securing financing, and refining policy measures.
