ENERGY ROADMAP – 06/03/2026

Grid Connection Reform: From Queue to Credibility

 In January 2026, the Belgian regulator CREG approved an amendment to the grid connection code. The objective is clear: reduce congestion, shorten delays and prevent speculative capacity reservations, bringing more structure to transmission-level connection procedures.The reform applies primarily to the transmission grid and affects both project developers and large industrial consumers.

The new framework introduces a fully structured process. Orientation studies and detailed studies are now clearly separated. In the past, applicants could move directly to detailed studies. That is no longer possible. Each step must now be completed in sequence.

Every stage has defined administrative requirements, responsible parties and binding deadlines. For example, once a detailed study is delivered, the applicant has 120 days to respond. If no action is taken, the request is cancelled and the reserved capacity is released. This is a fundamental change. Previously, capacity could remain blocked without strict time enforcement.

While the “first come, first served” principle formally remains, project maturity now plays a central role. Applicants must demonstrate technical, financial and permitting readiness. Proof of land availability becomes compulsory.

A new “use it or lose it” principle is introduced for new applications. If procedural deadlines are missed, capacity is automatically released. Existing connections are not directly targeted, but discussions around broader application continue.

Elia must also provide greater transparency through its Hosting Capacity Map. This tool gives upfront visibility on available grid capacity by region.

For clients, this reform increases predictability regarding timelines but reduces flexibility. Capacity reservation now creates binding obligations. Grid strategy must start earlier in the investment cycle.

“Grid access is no longer a placeholder decision, it is a milestone commitment”

Shabane Bakhshyan, Energy Manager. 

We help you assess grid feasibility, structure applications correctly and align timelines with your investment roadmap. In a more disciplined allocation model, preparation determines success.

If you are planning electrification, expansion or on-site generation, speak to your Energy Manager to secure your grid position in time.

ENERGY ASSETS – 13/03/2026

Electrifying Road Freight: A Fast-Growing Opportunity to Cut Costs and Emissions

Electrification is expanding beyond passenger vehicles and into heavy transport. Recent developments show that electric trucks are now reaching a level of technological maturity that makes them increasingly viable for large freight operations. Improvements in battery capacity, charging infrastructure and vehicle performance are accelerating the shift away from diesel-powered logistics.

Modern electric trucks can now cover distances of up to around 650 kilometres on a single charge. Battery warranties range between roughly 600,000 kilometres and 1.5 million kilometres, significantly improving long-term reliability for operators. High-power charging systems, reaching up to 1 MW, allow trucks to recharge quickly and maintain operational efficiency across long-haul routes.

Although the initial investment remains higher, the economics are increasingly attractive. An electric semi-truck can cost around €250,000 compared with approximately €150,000 for a conventional diesel truck. However, the higher capital expenditure can be offset by significantly lower fuel and maintenance costs. Some analyses estimate that investments in electric freight fleets can achieve a payback period of between two and four years, depending on how vehicles are deployed and replaced within existing fleets.

The technology is also proving itself at scale. China alone now manufactures around 200,000 electric buses, 200,000 electric semi-trailers and approximately one million electric trucks each year. This rapid industrial deployment demonstrates that electric heavy transport has moved beyond early experimentation and into large-scale commercial adoption.

Beyond cost savings, electrification can also reduce exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets. Diesel-dependent logistics operations remain sensitive to oil price fluctuations, especially during periods of geopolitical instability. Electrified fleets offer greater energy cost predictability while simultaneously lowering  CO2 and noise at the same level.

“Electric freight transport is moving from concept to operational reality. Companies that electrify logistics can reduce operational costs while limiting exposure to oil price volatility.”
Léopold Ryelandt, Energy Manager 

For energy-intensive companies operating large transport fleets or supply chains, electrifying freight corridors can therefore deliver both economic and environmental value. Lower operating costs, improved energy security and reduced emissions make electric logistics an increasingly strategic investment.

If you want to explore how electrifying transport operations could reduce both energy costs and carbon exposure in your organisation, please contact your Energy Manager to discuss the opportunities in more detail.