Belgian Nuclear Forum and Ontario Power Generation sign Letter of Intent to collaborate on new nuclear energy projects in Belgium

Paris, November 4, 2025 – During the World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) in Paris, the Belgian Nuclear Forum (BNF), Belgian federation of nuclear industry and Canada’s Ontario Power Generation (OPG) signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to collaborate on the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Belgium.

The signing took place in the presence of Mathieu Bihet, Belgium’s Minister of Energy, and Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy, highlighting the shared commitment of both countries to advancing safe, sustainable nuclear innovation.

This collaboration follows the recent repeal of Belgium’s 2003 Nuclear Phase-Out Law and the adoption of the so-called “Bihet Law”, which reopens the door for investments in nuclear technology.

According to the Belgian Nuclear Forum, the agreement marks an important milestone in the renaissance of nuclear energy in Belgium. “As the representative of Belgium’s nuclear sector, it is only logical that we join forces with OPG, a world-class nuclear operator with over 50 years of experience,” the Forum stated. “Together, we aim to analyze how new reactors could be realized in Belgium by 2035.”

Mathieu Bihet, Belgian Minister of Energy:

“By partnering with a global leader, our nuclear industry is strengthening its credibility and its ability to develop next-generation technologies. The development of small modular reactors marks a decisive step in the nuclear renaissance. Thanks to the expertise of our companies and international cooperation, Belgium is positioning itself to play a major role in the growth of this safe, flexible and sustainable technology, in service of the energy transition.”

Stephen Lecce, Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines:

“As countries around the world look for affordable, reliable, and clean energy, Ontario is leading the way. We are proud to work with Belgium to explore opportunities to deploy Ontario-made nuclear technology and SMR expertise. The world is watching and turning to Ontario as we build the G7’s first SMR, backed by our reputation of delivering nuclear projects, on-time and on-budget, while exporting our clean energy advantage to fast-growing economies. These projects are opening new markets for Ontario’s nuclear supply chain, creating good-paying jobs and positioning our province as a global energy superpower.”

The LOI emphasizes both parties’ shared goal of contributing to a sustainable and affordable energy future.

• OPG will leverage its first mover advantage in building SMRs in the G7 and will collaborate with others and share expertise in technology, development, operation and maintenance.
• BNF will contribute its technical and industry expertise, while also helping to foster public understanding and acceptance of nuclear energy as part of Belgium’s broader energy transition.

Kim Lauritsen, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Strategy & Growth at Ontario Power Generation:

“As jurisdictions around the world look to small modular reactors (SMRs) to help meet electricity demand and build energy independence, OPG’s leadership on the first grid-scale SMR in the G7 positions us well to assist others considering following suit. We look forward to further discussions with the Belgian Nuclear Forum on how we can help advance its nation’s goal of adding SMR technology to its nuclear fleet.”

Serge Dauby, Managing Director of the Belgian Nuclear Forum:

“This collaboration with OPG symbolizes the revival of Belgium’s nuclear sector. It sends a strong signal that our expertise and industrial capabilities are once again being recognized on the global stage. However, this letter of intent is only a starting point for further steps. Federal and regional authorities must now urgently bring all stakeholders together around the table to develop a feasible roadmap.”

Moreover, the Belgian Nuclear Forum emphasizes the need to strengthen and expand our nuclear supply chain, while encouraging young people to pursue technical and engineering training in order to meet the future needs of the nuclear sector. A working group is also to be set urgently up on this topic.