Hungary Defends National Energy Security with Bold Danube Measures
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Hungary is taking decisive action by sinking two barges and building a stone sill on the Danube, ensuring the Paks nuclear plant remains operational and safeguarding the nation’s energy independence amid record-low river levels.
Hungary has launched a robust initiative to secure its energy future, sinking two 80-metre barges in the Danube near the Paks nuclear power plant, Prime Minister Péter Magyar announced on X. This proactive step follows a significant drop of 122 centimetres below normal river levels, which could threaten the operation of one of the plant’s two turbines if the river falls below 132 centimetres. The government is determined to prevent any disruption to the country’s critical infrastructure.
In addition, authorities are constructing an underwater dam, or sill, using about 150,000 cubic metres of stone to slow the river’s current and further increase water depth. The Defence Ministry has mobilized around 100 dedicated troops, working tirelessly to complete this vital project.
The Paks plant supplies more than a third of Hungary’s electricity, and these measures are essential to keep it fully operational during a summer of unprecedented low Danube levels, which have caused shutdowns in Romania and temporary reductions in France’s nuclear output. Hungary’s government is demonstrating strong leadership and commitment to national sovereignty by prioritizing the stability and security of its energy supply in the face of environmental challenges.