Historic commitment on Flemish energy policy

The priorities are to keep energy costs affordable and increase the use of renewable energy. It’s the first time so many organisations in Flanders have committed to working together on an energy vision for the future.

Among the participating organisations are sector federations, unions, environmental organisation, universities and research centres. They include the federation of industrial energy consumers Febeliec, farmers’ union Boerenbond, environmental organisation Bond Beter Leefmilieu and the Flemish Institute for Technological Research (Vito).

“Everyone is aware of the efforts that Flanders needs to take in the field of renewable energy,” said Tommelein (pictured signing agreement). “This is the chance to work together on a widely supported vision.”

Experts are now working on concrete proposals in working groups, and after the summer, every Flemish citizen will be able to post ideas and discuss issues on a forum. From these online contributors, 150 citizens will be selected to debate in October with each other and with experts. By the end of the year, the best ideas should lead to a concrete energy vision and energy pact.

Photo courtesy Bart Tommelein / Facebook