Hungarian authorities suspend Semcorp battery plant operations in Debrecen

The Hajdú‑Bihar County Government Office ordered an immediate, indefinite shutdown of all activities at the Semcorp Hungary Kft. battery separator‑film plant in Debrecen. Inspections by the fire‑safety authority uncovered multiple violations that threatened personal and property safety, including a non‑functional fire‑pump, improper acetone and oxygen sensor setups, irregular chemical dilutions, and an open water‑supply line for the foam‑sprinkler system. The agency also imposed a 3 million‑forint fire‑safety fine.

Earlier, the environmental authority had suspended the plant because of severe pollution concerns. Tests revealed extremely high concentrations of aluminium and other metals in soil samples. The Debrecen mayor, previously a supporter of the plant, was urged by government officials to resign, citing his knowledge of the contamination. The shutdown remains in effect until the fire‑suppression system is fully operational and the plant complies with safety and environmental standards.