Belgium’s electricity grid is at risk of becoming overloaded in the coming years, according to a warning issued by the Flemish energy regulator on Thursday.
The alert comes as the country experiences a surge in the adoption of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and solar panels, all of which are placing growing pressure on the low-voltage networks that supply electricity to households.
The regulator conducted a comprehensive study examining the impact of increasing societal electrification on these networks.
Unlike earlier studies that relied primarily on theoretical projections, the new research uses data collected from digital meters installed in homes across the region. This approach provides a more precise view of how electricity demand is evolving at the local level.
The study confirms previous estimates suggesting that, without additional investment, between 50% and 65% of Belgium’s grid could be overloaded by 2050. Overloads in low-voltage networks can result in significant problems, including power outages and the overheating of connected devices.
“Investments in the grid are no longer optional but essential if we want to avoid widespread disruptions,” said a spokesperson for the Flemish energy regulator. “The increasing number of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and solar installations is creating unprecedented demand patterns that our current infrastructure is not fully prepared to handle.”
The rise in electric vehicle adoption is a major contributing factor. Charging stations, especially those in residential areas, require substantial electricity, often during peak usage hours.
Similarly, heat pumps, which are becoming increasingly common as households move away from gas heating, consume significant amounts of energy. Solar panels, while generating electricity for homes, can also lead to network congestion when excess energy is fed back into local grids.
Experts note that low-voltage networks were originally designed for relatively stable and predictable electricity usage. The rapid electrification of transport and heating has fundamentally changed this dynamic, making investments in infrastructure upgrades critical. Without them, the risk of localized blackouts and equipment damage will increase.
The Flemish energy regulator emphasizes that the findings should serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, grid operators, and energy companies. The study’s reliance on digital meter data allows for more accurate forecasting and planning, highlighting areas where immediate interventions are needed.
Government and private sector collaboration is expected to be key in addressing these challenges. Upgrading transformers, reinforcing distribution lines, and implementing smarter grid management systems are all part of the potential solutions.
Delays in investment, experts warn, could lead to more severe and costly problems in the future. As Belgium continues its push toward electrification and sustainable energy, ensuring that the electricity grid can cope with rising demand is critical.
The regulator’s study underscores the urgency of proactive measures to protect households and businesses from the growing risk of electricity network overload.
