Civil society criticizes the absence of the Minister of Energy with a gigantic bill in the Place de la Monnaie.
This morning, the Mint in Brussels presented an unusual spectacle. This pedestrian square, usually bustling with the flow of walkers, scooters, and cyclists of all kinds, was suddenly taken over by a bill several meters high displaying a question mark. On this question mark was the face of a man accompanied by the slogan “What’s your plan, Bihet?”
The Climate Coalition gathered on Monday at the Place de la Monnaie in Brussels with a striking message: a bill several meters high addressed to the Minister of Energy, Mathieu Bihet, who is completely absent during this energy crisis.
None of the passersby questioned recognized the man… This is precisely where the problem lies. The federal Minister of Energy, Mathieu Bihet, is the target, and for good reason: he is entirely unknown and absent in the midst of a climate and energy crisis. “Bihet, who?” summarizes a Brussels resident.
A scheme of stagnation
As Europe faces a fossil energy crisis for the second time in four years, a long-term vision is still absent for Belgium. The misstep of our government is not an isolated case, but rather a pattern: crucial energy files drag on, decisions are postponed, and deadlines are missed. Belgium thus remains one of the worst students in the European class when it comes to renewable energy.
The latest example, and certainly not the least, is that of Minister Bihet, who let his own deadline pass for the relaunch of the offshore wind farm tender for Princess Élisabeth, a project that could cover up to 16% of Belgian electricity demand starting in 2031. Meanwhile, essential elements, such as the energy island, are being scaled back in terms of ambition. In the midst of an energy crisis, one of the most important projects for supply security is struggling to take off. “After a year and a half in office, investment security is undermined and crucial infrastructures are delayed. This is unacceptable,” declares Nadia Cornejo, vice president of the Climate Coalition.
When inaction comes at a high price
The timing of Bihet’s inaction couldn’t be worse. The recent escalation in the Middle East reveals just how vulnerable our energy system is. Gas prices have doubled, and oil prices have risen by 40%.
“These shocks are a direct consequence of an energy system that remains dependent on fossil fuel imports,” asserts Nadia Cornejo, vice president of the Climate Coalition. “Ordinary people are paying the price today for these years of procrastination.” Wind energy cannot be blocked in the Strait of Hormuz. Solar energy cannot be held hostage to Trump’s whims either. “
The comparison with neighboring countries is striking. While Spain, by resolutely betting on renewable energies, boasts electricity prices around 14 euros per MWh, those in Belgium exceed 100 euros per MWh. Germany and the United Kingdom announced a significant ramp-up of wind energy in March. In the UK alone, this investment provides electricity to 23 million households and avoids the import of about 80 methane tankers per year. This is the result of political will. We are still waiting for it in Belgium.
The current government is focusing on short-term measures to mitigate the impact of rising prices. But without structural choices for a long-term vision, it’s treating the symptom without addressing the cause. During the energy crisis of 2022, about half of the failing Russian gas was replaced by renewable energies and heat pumps. “The lesson had been learned,” emphasizes Nadia Cornejo. “Yet, it is not being applied today.“
A majority of citizens is pushing for the transition.
Our action is not isolated. A recent national survey (results from April 24, 2026, Public Health Service) shows that 78% of the Belgian population is still concerned about climate change. Eight out of ten Belgians want their government to at least maintain current climate measures or propose a more ambitious climate policy — and take action.
And, according to a survey conducted among more than 6,000 people in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Poland, about 60% want Europe to accelerate the transition to renewable energy or at least continue at the same pace.
“The wind is at our backs,” says Nadia Cornejo. “If the minister is willing to listen.”
Our requests
The Climate Coalition presents three clear demands to Minister Bihet. First, an immediate clarification on how Belgium will structurally reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Second, prioritizing the deployment of offshore wind energy, including the Princess Elisabeth Zone and the energy island. Third, an inter-federal energy vision focused on reducing consumption, increasing efficiency, and accelerating the transition to renewable energies, with particular attention to energy poverty and social justice.
So, once again, Minister Bihet… what’s the plan?
Infos action
- April 27, 2026 – 10:30 AM
- Place de la Monnaie – 1000 Bruxelles
Climate Coalition Info
- The Climate Coalition brings together a wide array of youth movements, mutual societies, environmental organizations, NGOs, trade unions, and citizen movements from across Belgium.
- Nearly 100 organizations are campaigning together for a just climate transition.
Spokespeople
- FR – Nadia Cornejo, vice president and spokesperson
- NL – Kiki Berkers, political coordinator
Press contact
- Laurence Rouffart, communication officer Climate Coalition
pbz-cerff@pbnyvgvbapyvzng.or – +32 470 98 17 15 (FR)
