Hungary faces energy crisis as Paks nuclear plant suspends operations

Hungary is facing a critical energy emergency as its sole nuclear power plant, Paks, prepares for a total shutdown for the first time in 44 to 50 years. Located south of Budapest, the facility provides between 40% and 50% of the country's electricity. Prime Minister Péter Magyar announced that the suspension is necessary because record-low water levels in the Danube River—caused by prolonged drought and extreme heat—have left insufficient water to safely cool the plant's four Soviet-era reactors. Recent operations at the site had already been throttled to approximately 10% of total capacity.

Authorities have declared a five-day state of high alert, as the shutdown coincides with a new heatwave expected to place immense pressure on the national power grid and public services. The government plans to issue a decree demanding that large energy consumers, local governments, and households drastically reduce electricity consumption, particularly during peak hours. Failure to meet these voluntary targets may result in mandatory state-imposed restrictions. Additionally, a concurrent failure in a gas-fired power unit has further strained the energy system, compounding the logistical and economic challenges caused by the regional drought affecting major European waterways.