Electricity and natural gas connection
In order to consume electricity or natural gas, a connection to the distribution network is required. Your distribution network operator maintains the grid and takes care of the distribution of electricity and natural gas. An energy supplier then takes care of production and delivery.
You are not free to choose your distribution network operator. The distribution network operator depends on the place of connection.
- In Flanders, your distribution network operator is Fluvius (in Dutch)(opens in new window).
- In Brussels, the distribution network operator is Sibelga(opens in new window).
Big consumers of electricity wishing to be directly connected to the high-voltage grid or the high-pressure grid, can get in touch with Elia(opens in new window) (electricity) and Fluxys(opens in new window) (natural gas).
New electricity or natural gas connection
If you are constructing a new building and would like to consume electricity or natural gas, you have to request a new connection from the distribution network operator. During the construction works, you can choose between a temporary connection (which will be removed after the works) and a construction site connection with a definitive cable (which will become the definitive connection). If you have any questions about this, please get in touch with your distribution network operator.
A new electricity connection must be inspected before the first use.
- Since 2017, distribution network operators do not have to accept all new natural gas connections. The Flemish authorities want to invest in renewable energy and reduce old fossil fuels.
- On 20 July 2018 the Flemish government has taken a number of decisions in order to reduce the use of fossil fuels for private home heating. Houses located in new plots will no longer be connected to natural gas from 2021 onwards. These measures are still waiting for final approval.
Modifying an existing connection
Are you renovating and do you want to strengthen or extend your connection? This is possible, but you will have to get your electrical installation inspected again.
It is also possible to move your connection, to add or remove a meter or to go for a dual meter. These modifications are not free of charge. Please get in touch with your distribution network operator for more information.
Problems when connecting to the network or power cuts without prior notice
Was the requested connection to the distribution network delayed? Was there a power cut for more than 4 hours without prior notice? In these cases, you can get in touch with your distribution network operator to get a financial compensation.
