Rosatom faces delays in Hungary's Paks II nuclear plant construction

Internal documents from the Russian state-owned company Rosatom indicate that the Paks II nuclear power plant project in Hungary will face significant delays. While the project was previously scheduled for completion in 2032, new confidential construction plans suggest the work will not be finished until late December 2034.

The Paks II project is a critical expansion of the existing Soviet-era Paks plant, which currently provides nearly half of Hungary's electricity. The expansion, featuring two new Rosatom reactors, is expected to produce 2,400 megawatts, surpassing the 2,000 MW output of the current facility. This capacity is vital for Hungary's future energy security, especially as the original plant is slated for decommissioning between 2032 and 2037.

The project has remained controversial due to its reliance on Russian technology and partnership. Hungary's new Prime Minister, Peter Mađar, who succeeded Viktor Orban in April and is a critic of Russia, has already initiated a review of the project. These developments follow reports regarding safety concerns at another Rosatom nuclear site in Egypt that utilizes similar reactor technology.