Framatome has been selected by Electrabel, a subsidiary of the Engie Group, to upgrade the rod control system (CGL) of the Tihange 3 nuclear reactor. This facility, with a capacity of 1,030 megawatts, has been operational since 1985 and remains a key component of Belgium’s nuclear fleet. The project will replace all current equipment with the digital Rodline® technology, already deployed at numerous nuclear sites worldwide.
A strategic project for operational continuity
The upgrade will take place over several years and will include engineering, on-site installation and maintenance phases. The CGL system plays a critical role in regulating reactor power and automatically activating safety systems in the event of an incident. The Rodline® technology, developed by Framatome, is currently the most widely used digital rod control system in pressurised water reactors.
This contract is part of the agreement signed in 2023 between Engie and the Belgian government, which aims to extend the operational life of the country’s nuclear reactors. Belgium, which had previously planned a phased nuclear exit, has revised its strategy in response to security of supply and grid stability concerns.
Strengthening industrial cooperation
Framatome is thus reinforcing its presence in the Belgian market by leveraging its expertise in nuclear control systems. Such upgrades help ensure the long-term reliability of reactors by aligning equipment with current industry standards.
“This contract reflects Electrabel’s renewed confidence in Framatome and our expertise in nuclear plant modernisation,” said Laurent Thieffry, Senior Executive Vice President I&C at Framatome. He also highlighted the importance of team performance in maintaining operational continuity.
