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Time: 2025-11-27 06:26:53 Source: Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd.
Electrical installations in Belgium must navigate a bilingual, federated landscape where safety meets practicality. The Règlement Général sur les Installations Électriques (RGIE), or Algemeen Reglement op de Elektrische Installaties (AREI) in Dutch, sets the rules for all voltage levels, contrasting with France's low-voltage-focused NF C 15-100. Updated in 2020 and aligned with EU directives into 2025, RGIE emphasizes fire prevention and new tech integration. This guide covers RGIE essentials and highlights seven key differences with NF C 15-100, aiding cross-border professionals and exporters in the Benelux-Francophone markets.
RGIE 2020, published in 2019 and effective since 2020, replaces the 1981 version with three books: low/extra-low voltage (Book 1), high voltage (Book 2), and special installations (Book 3). It applies to domestic, commercial, and industrial setups up to 1000V AC/1500V DC (and beyond), incorporating IEC 60364 with Belgian specifics like bilingual compliance and regional variations (Flanders/Wallonia). Legally enforced via royal decrees, it mandates inspections for sales/rentals. 2025 updates focus on EV charging and renewables, differing from NF C 15-100's residential emphasis.
RGIE Section 2.1 requires sizing per current capacity, voltage drop (max 5%), and derating for temperature (40°C ambient). Minimum 1.5 mm² for lighting, 2.5 mm² for sockets (max 8 outlets/circuit). Use copper conductors; conduits mandatory in walls.
| Circuit Type | Cable Size | Breaker Rating | Max Load / Points | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighting | 1.5 mm² | 16 A | Max 10 points | Indoor lights |
| Socket-Outlets | 2.5 mm² | 16 A | Max 8 outlets | General plugs |
| Kitchen/High-Load | 4.0–6.0 mm² | 32 A | Dedicated circuit | Ovens, appliances |
| EV Charging | 6.0 mm²+ | 32 A | Dedicated | Home chargers |
| Protective Earth (PE) | Min 2.5 mm² | N/A | Full installation | TN/TT earthing |
Harmonized with IEC 60446: Brown (phase), blue (neutral), green/yellow (PE). Multi-phase: Brown (L1), black (L2), grey (L3). Bilingual labels required; legacy systems must be marked. This aligns with EU norms, similar to NF C 15-100.
Section 4 mandates radial circuits (no rings), 30 mA RCDs for sockets/bathrooms, and conduits for protection. Sockets min 15 cm above floor in dry areas; separation from pipes 300 mm. 2025 enhancements: EV provisions and fire barriers. Bathrooms zoned: IPX4+ in wet zones.
Both stem from IEC 60364, but RGIE's broader scope and Belgian context create distinctions. Here's a comparison:
| Aspect | RGIE (Belgium) | NF C 15-100 (France) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | All voltages (low to high); domestic to industrial | Low-voltage only; focus on residential/buildings |
| Common Parts | Explicit rules for shared building areas | Limited to individual units; separate for commons |
| Sensitive Environments | Detailed for hospitals, explosions, bathrooms | General; supplements for specials |
| Max Sockets per Circuit | 8 max | 12 max |
| Structure | 3 books, 9 parts each; bilingual | 21-part series; French-focused |
| Inspections | Mandatory for sales/rentals; regional certified | Consuel certification; national |
| High-Voltage Integration | Book 2 dedicated | Separate NF C 14-100 |
RGIE's comprehensive, voltage-spanning approach contrasts NF C 15-100's low-voltage precision, reflecting Belgium's industrial diversity vs. France's residential focus. Understanding these differences ensures safe, compliant installations across borders. For the €30B+ Benelux market, mastery of RGIE is a competitive edge.
Need RGIE-compliant cables? Contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. for tailored solutions and quotes.
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