Belgium Energy Supply: Minister Says Winter Shortages Are Unlikely
Belgium is heading into winter amid renewed pressure on international energy markets, but Federal Energy Minister Mathieu Bihet says the country remains well supplied with gas and heating oil.
In interviews published by Le Soir and De Morgen on September 21, Bihet acknowledged that the international situation is serious. However, he said Belgium’s strategic reserves and its role as a major European energy hub reduce the risk of shortages during the coming winter.
Belgium is closely monitoring gas supplies
Bihet said the government is monitoring the gas situation continuously with Fluxys, Belgium’s natural gas transmission system operator, while also staying in contact with suppliers.
According to the minister, Belgium has an important advantage because of its position as an energy hub in Europe.
He said about two-thirds of the gas entering Belgium comes through pipelines from Norway and the United Kingdom. The remaining third is liquefied natural gas, or LNG, coming from suppliers including Russia, Qatar and the United States.
“The situation is serious and is being monitored,” Bihet said, while stressing that Belgium remains well supplied.
The country’s position is particularly important as the European Union moves to end imports of Russian natural gas. Under the EU phase-out plan, Russian LNG imports are due to be fully banned from January 1, 2027.
Belgian authorities have also confirmed that the country is preparing to end its dependence on Russian gas in line with the EU measures.
More than 90 days of fuel reserves
The situation is also being closely watched for diesel and heating oil.
Bihet said Belgium has strategic stocks of crude oil and refined petroleum products covering more than 90 days of consumption, in line with its obligations.
That reserve is designed to help Belgium respond to disruptions in the international oil market and protect the country’s supply during periods of uncertainty.
The government has also been working on emergency planning for possible disruptions to the supply of crude oil and petroleum products. In May 2026, the Council of Ministers approved a draft royal decree aimed at strengthening Belgium’s preparation for a potential supply crisis.
Energy prices remain a concern
While Bihet says supply is currently not the main problem, energy prices remain a major concern for households.
The minister acknowledged that Belgium has limited control over prices because they are heavily influenced by international developments, including tensions involving Iran, Russia and Yemen.
The government has already approved reforms aimed at making energy bills clearer and easier for households and businesses to compare. The new system is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.
The reform will introduce a more standardized energy bill, with clearer information about energy costs, network charges and taxes. The government says the changes are intended to help consumers better understand their bills and compare contracts.
For now, the message from the federal Energy Minister is that Belgium faces a serious international energy situation, but the country enters the winter with strategic fuel reserves, diversified gas supplies and an important position within Europe’s energy network.
