Hungary Braces for Shutdown at Paks Nuclear Plant

According to Prime Minister Peter Magyar, Hungary is facing five critical days. The reason is the record-low water level of the Danube, which could force the Paks nuclear power plant to halt production completely for the first time in more than 40 years. The situation is further worsened by an approaching heat wave.

The plant's four reactors, which use water from the Danube for cooling, were operating at just over 10% of their total capacity on Sunday. Water management officials also expect the river's water level to continue falling in the coming days.

"We are facing the most critical five days ahead. Tomorrow, the Paks power plant will not be generating, while the hottest, 40-degree (Celsius) days are ahead. The power grid, our public services and ourselves will all come under enormous strain", said Magyar. He added that the power plant could remain out of operation for several weeks.

Low water levels in the Danube have already disrupted shipping and tourism, and water use restrictions are in effect in more than 100 cities and towns, including the Budapest area.

The prime minister once again called on businesses, public institutions, local governments and households to significantly reduce or shift their electricity consumption during the evening peak hours.

The government is also set to decide on Sunday whether to impose mandatory electricity consumption restrictions on large businesses starting Monday.

(Reuters, bak)