Hungary shuts Paks nuclear plant due to low Danube water levels

Record‑low water levels on the Danube River have forced the shutdown of the Paks nuclear power plant, Hungary’s largest electricity generator, prompting concerns about a looming power shortfall. The plant, which supplies roughly 40 % of the nation’s electricity, relies on the river for cooling its reactors; the unusually shallow flow, attributed to a dry spring and reduced upstream runoff, triggered automatic safety protocols that halted operations on Tuesday.

Energy officials warned that the loss of Paks’ output could strain the national grid, especially as demand rises ahead of the summer heatwave. The government has activated reserve capacity from fossil‑fuel and renewable sources and is urging neighboring countries to increase electricity imports. Simultaneously, authorities are monitoring river conditions and preparing contingency plans to resume nuclear generation once water levels meet the minimum safety thresholds, aiming to avert any prolonged disruption to Hungary’s power supply.