Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar has warned citizens the nation faces a critical five-day period due to extreme heat and the complete shutdown of the Paks nuclear power plant, which supplies 40% of Hungary’s electricity.
In a statement posted on his X account, Magyar stated: “Compatriots, we are facing the most critical five days. Tomorrow, Paks NPP will no longer produce electricity, and the hottest, 40-degree days will come. Our electric power system, our utilities and ourselves will be subjected to a huge load.” He urged residents to reduce electricity consumption from 17:00 to 22:00 hours, with particular emphasis on cutting usage between 18:00 and 21:00.
On August 1, the second of four nuclear units at Paks was shut down after Danube water levels declined. The plant’s output plummeted below one-quarter of its capacity—2,000 megawatts—as it normally serves 40% of Hungary’s electricity demand. Magyar later confirmed the facility would operate at just 240 megawatts before ceasing operations entirely for the first time in 44 years.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced Slovakia is prepared to assist Hungary with emergency power during potential crises. Fico discussed immediate options for temporary electricity transfers with Denisa Sakova, Slovakia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister, and Branislav Strychek, head of Slovak Power Plants.
