Belgium’s construction sector is facing a sharp downturn as sustainable renovation premiums from Leefmilieu Brussel have run out of budget. This development has left many local businesses uncertain about future orders and workforce stability. On 2025-06-09 10:06:00, industry insiders revealed the significant impact on companies producing energy-efficient window frames in Neder-over-Heembeek.
- Leads 36 employees in window frame production
- Faces 25% order decline, €500K loss
- Loses potential hires due to budget cuts
- Withholds employee bonuses to build reserves
- Cuts workplace perks to save costs
- Avoids layoffs to prevent extra expenses
With no clear indication of when or if these subsidies will resume, renovation projects are being postponed. This slowdown has caused a 25% drop in orders for some firms, translating to half a million euros in lost revenue. How can companies survive such a blow without government support? And what does this mean for employees counting on bonuses and job security?
The situation raises urgent questions about the future of sustainable building efforts in Brussels and the livelihoods tied to them. The following fast answer highlights the immediate effects on the local workforce and economy.
Why is the renewal of these premiums so critical? Without them, many companies face reduced income and struggle to maintain staff morale and investment in new equipment. Key challenges include:
- Loss of potential bonuses for loyal employees, affecting motivation.
- Inability to hire skilled temporary workers amid declining orders.
- Cutbacks on workplace perks and resources to save costs.
- Risk of losing experienced subcontractors due to budget constraints.
Looking ahead, it is crucial for policymakers to clarify the future of renovation premiums to help businesses plan effectively. Can the government act swiftly to restore confidence and support sustainable growth? The coming months will be decisive for Brussels’ construction sector and its workforce.