Addressing the challenges of a nuclear phase-out with energy synergies on business parks

Similar to many other Western countries, Belgium has committed to internationally set climate goals, such as the reduction in primary energy consumption and the increase in the share of renewable energy production in the total energy mix. Additionally, Belgium has decided to phase out its nuclear energy production, the nation’s largest source of low carbon electricity. In this paper, the role of Belgian business parks and industrial clusters in contributing to the climate goals is investigated, based on the experiences of the authors on several business parks and industrial clusters. The concepts of cogeneration, advanced thermal grids, and local energy communities are discussed and applied on pilot clusters. Their effectiveness towards achieving the climate goals is evaluated, and finally, some policy recommendations are proposed. The results are based on the Belgian situation but are valid for other countries facing similar challenges.

Jaar van publicatie:2020

Toegankelijkheid:Open