Hungary is set to shut down its only nuclear power plant, Paks, for the first time in 44 years due to record-low water levels in the Danube River. This unprecedented move comes as the plant, which generates over 40% of the country’s electricity, can no longer cool its reactors effectively. The Danube’s water levels have plummeted following months of heat waves and low rainfall, forcing the government to take drastic measures.
The shutdown is expected to have significant financial implications, with estimates suggesting that Hungary could face costs between 120 billion and 240 billion forints, equivalent to $315 million to $630 million. As electricity prices surge due to the need for imports, the government is preparing for potential power shortages and has warned of voluntary power cuts for large consumers.
Prime Minister Peter Magyar has indicated that the Paks plant could remain offline for weeks, raising concerns about the stability of Hungary’s energy supply. The government plans to implement measures to manage consumption, including penalties for noncompliance with power reduction requests.
As households will be the last to face restrictions, the situation highlights vulnerabilities in Hungary’s energy infrastructure and raises questions about the long-term sustainability of relying on a single nuclear facility for such a significant portion of electricity generation.
Source: DW News
