Energy transition

Fluvius is preparing Flanders’ energy distribution networks for the future. Given the goal of achieving climate neutrality in Flanders by 2050 and all the associated developments in the areas of mobility, building heating, industrial processes and renewable energy production, the electricity grid will play an increasingly important role in the coming years. But what does that mean for our energy networks? And what financial investment will it require? We outline this in our Investment Plan 2026–2035.

We are opting for ‘no-regret’ investments in the electricity grids and, for our gas networks, we are focusing on maintaining and upkeeping the existing infrastructure. This ensures we won’t face any problems in the short term and that we avoid making unnecessary investments.

We are now allocating a budget of 4 billion euros to strengthen the low- and medium-voltage grids and distribution substations. We are preparing them for various scenarios, such as an increase in electric vehicles, heat pumps, industry, solar panels and wind energy.

To better assess future needs up to 2050, we are taking steps to monitor how grid demand evolves and thus refine our scenarios. The digital meter is a key tool for this, but we are also exploring alternatives. For example, flexibility solutions, such as market-based flexibility and digitalisation.

In this way, we are bridging the gap between the ‘no-regret’ investments up to 2035 and the further investments towards 2050. We can slow down or speed up the pace of investment, depending on future developments or changes in energy policy, in consultation with our stakeholders.

The future of the natural gas grid plays a key role in the energy transition. Fluvius is investigating how we can phase out these grids in a strategic, sustainable and financially sound manner, in line with European obligations and societal expectations. We analyse studies, define scenarios and work with stakeholders to develop socially and environmentally responsible solutions. These contribute to an energy transition that combines comfort, feasibility and affordability.

Since early 2025, Fluvius has limited its role to that of a network operator for district heating grids. We do not produce or supply heat ourselves, except in exceptional cases. For existing district heating networks that still use fossil fuels, we are working towards a complete phase-out by 2050, in line with European directives.

Street lighting is one of the largest consumers of public energy. The switch to LED lighting is therefore a crucial lever in achieving Flanders’ climate and energy targets. By significantly reducing energy consumption and controlling lighting more intelligently, CO₂ emissions and energy costs will fall on a structural basis.

The switch to LED lighting and optimised lighting schedules delivers energy savings of over 42%, equivalent to the electricity consumption of around 52,000 households.
The lower power demand also contributes to a more efficient use of the electricity grid. For Fluvius, therefore, LED conversion is more than just replacing lamps. It is an essential part of the ‘Networks for Tomorrow’ programme, through which Fluvius is preparing the grid infrastructure for a future with more renewable energy, electrification and digital control. Our public lighting network represents the first tangible application of a flexible and interactive energy network.