Comparative case study between the nuclear energy policies of the Netherlands and Belgium
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2025-11-28
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nl
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This thesis aims to explain the different nuclear energy strategies of the Netherlands and Belgium. While the Netherlands has historically been hesitant to invest in nuclear energy, recent governments have announced plans to construct new nuclear power plants. In contrast, Belgium has a long-standing history of nuclear engagement, with seven reactors in operation since 1985. Nevertheless, in 2003, Belgium adopted a nuclear phase-out law. To understand these divergent policy choices, this thesis applies Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Framework and uses process tracing in a comparative case study of Belgium and the Netherlands.
In the Netherlands, the alignment of all three streams created favourable conditions for policy change. Rising energy prices, increasing dependency on energy imports, and the need for diversification strengthened the case for nuclear investment. Moreover, growing public- and political support enabled the two most recent governments to adopt policy proposals for the construction of new nuclear power plants, confirming the country’s nuclear phase-in. While problem indicators and policy solutions also created momentum for reconsidering nuclear energy in Belgium, the political stream did not align. The presence of the Green parties in government, and their continued commitment to the nuclear phase-out, prevented major policy changes in favour of nuclear energy.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen