Hungary is preparing for the possible temporary shutdown of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, the country’s only nuclear facility, after the Danube River fell to historically low levels due to prolonged drought and an intense heatwave affecting Central Europe. The plant, which supplies nearly half of Hungary’s electricity, is currently operating at less than half of its normal capacity, and officials warn that a complete shutdown could last for weeks if water levels do not recover.
The problem is not related to nuclear safety but to the lack of sufficient river water needed for the plant’s cooling system. According to the operator, enough water remains to cool the reactors safely, but the exceptionally low river level is preventing the cooling water intake system from operating normally. The company stressed that emergency procedures are in place and that any shutdown would be carried out in full compliance with international nuclear safety standards.
Prime Minister Péter Magyar said Hungary is preparing emergency measures, including increasing electricity imports and asking major industrial companies to voluntarily reduce electricity and water consumption during peak hours. Energy company MOL has already announced significant reductions in power use, while other large manufacturers are taking similar steps.
The ongoing heatwave has pushed electricity demand sharply higher while simultaneously reducing domestic generating capacity. Authorities warn that the combination of record demand and lower electricity production could place additional pressure on Hungary’s power grid.
The crisis extends beyond Hungary. Romania has also reduced nuclear power generation at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant, while low water levels across Europe’s major rivers are disrupting electricity production, inland shipping, agriculture, and industrial operations throughout the region.
Experts say the situation illustrates how climate change is increasingly affecting critical infrastructure. More frequent heatwaves and prolonged droughts are placing growing pressure on energy systems that rely on large volumes of river water for reactor cooling, making adaptation measures increasingly important across Europe.
Sources: Reuters, World Nuclear News, Hungarian government.
