Hungary’s long-delayed Paks II nuclear project has officially entered the construction phase after the first concrete was poured on site, a step that qualifies it as an active nuclear build under IAEA criteria. The milestone signals a transition from planning to full-scale implementation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stressed that Hungary committed to expanding nuclear capacity at a time when nuclear power faced strong political resistance across Europe. He said rising electricity demand and the need for stable, weather-independent generation have since reshaped the debate, bringing nuclear energy back into focus for competitiveness and industrial stability.
The project is being carried out with Russia’s Rosatom, whose leadership described the start of construction as both a symbolic and practical marker of Hungarian–Russian cooperation. Paks II is set to become the EU’s first plant operating modern VVER-1200 Generation III+ reactors. The initial concrete pour forms the base of the future control building for Unit 5. Next phases include building the reactor structures, installing double containment systems, and adding advanced safety technologies such as a core catcher for severe accident management.
For the Hungarian government, Paks II represents more than just new power generation. Officials say the reactors will help shield the country from volatile energy markets, maintain regulated household prices, and reinforce supply security. Nuclear expansion is also presented as a tool to keep long-term energy costs manageable.
Following the issuance of final foundation permits by the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority in November 2025, construction is expected to gather pace. Authorities view the plant’s future commissioning as a key move toward greater energy self-sufficiency for Hungary.
