Why is Hungary's Paks nuclear plant still operating at reduced capacity despite an expected rise in the Danube's water level?

The Paks nuclear plant remains at only 10% capacity because, although the Danube’s water level is expected to rise temporarily by about 20 cm due to recent rains in Austria, no further rain is forecast after the next day—making the increase short-lived; Prime Minister Peter Magyar explicitly stated the situation at the plant is still 'difficult' and that low water levels could become permanent, necessitating government solutions beyond temporary relief.

What changes has the Hungarian government announced regarding the Paks 2 nuclear expansion project in light of cooling water concerns?

Prime Minister Peter Magyar stated that the Paks 2 project—originally awarded to Russia’s Rosatom in 2014 without tender—must now be renegotiated specifically because it relies on Danube river water for cooling, just like the existing plant; he confirmed it is already costing double its initial projection, faces multi-year delays, and that alternative cooling methods (e.g., cooling towers) will be examined as part of a broader review of the project’s feasibility and resilience.

Hungary expects Danube to rise but nuclear plant still facing output curbs

Aug 7, 2026

Despite expected temporary rises in Danube water levels, Hungary's Paks nuclear plant remains at reduced capacity due to heatwaves. The government is reviewing the Paks 2 expansion costs and plans to tender 700 MW of new wind energy capacity by August.

reuters

2026-08-07

Hungary expects Danube to rise but nuclear plant still facing output curbs

Hungary expects Danube to rise but nuclear plant still facing output curbs

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