American small modular nuclear reactors may power Hungarian cities soon

Although it sounds futuristic, American small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) may soon supply energy to numerous Hungarian cities and industrial areas — at least, that is the intention behind the new American–Hungarian energy agreement. But will it be dangerous to have a small nuclear power plant next to every Hungarian city?

While the Russians have received a massive contract from the Hungarian government to expand the Paks Nuclear Power Plant (although the project is progressing slowly), the Americans are preparing to enter the Hungarian market with their small modular nuclear reactors. These operate on principles similar to those of large nuclear power plants, but they are easily scalable and can function in locations where traditional nuclear plants are impractical.

According to Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, this technology could soon provide power for cities and industrial zones across the country, though no specific timeline has been given.

• Paks II Nuclear Power Plant construction start announced

Small modular nuclear reactors could support domestic energy demand

The Hungarian government has strongly criticised the European Union’s REPowerEU regulation, which effectively bans the import and use of Russian piped and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from 1 January 2028. Besides claiming that the legislation was adopted under dubious circumstances, the Orbán government argues that the proposal threatens Hungary’s energy security and undermines the success of its utility cost reduction policies, insisting that only cooperation with Russia can diversify supply and keep prices low.

In addition to expanding the Paks nuclear plant with two new reactor blocks — a project facing significant delays — the government aims to install American small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) capable of powering individual cities or industrial areas.