The Russian state nuclear energy corporation Rosatom has expressed its readiness to review and audit the ongoing works of Hungary’s Paks II nuclear power plant project, signalling openness to technical and financial consultations with the Hungarian side.

According to Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev, the company has already communicated through diplomatic and business channels that it is prepared to discuss all outstanding issues related to pricing structure and project deadlines, while awaiting Budapest’s decision on whether formal consultations should begin.

Audit offer and consultation readiness

According to Portfolio, Likhachev told journalists in Saint Petersburg that Rosatom is willing to “participate in consultations and answer all questions” concerning the project’s cost framework and implementation timeline.

He added that the company is also open to an audit of the construction works and is waiting for Hungary’s response regarding the launch of talks with Rosatom as the main contractor.

However, he noted that it remains unclear whether any consultation process would take place before or after a Hungarian-led audit, or possibly in parallel with it.

Political backdrop: Hungary reassesses the project

The developments come as Hungary signals a potential reassessment of the terms of the long-running nuclear expansion project at Paks II nuclear power plant.

Hungarian Economy and Energy Minister István Kapitány reportedly stated in May that the government intends to review the contractual conditions of the project.

Following that announcement, Likhachev indicated that Rosatom still hopes the new Hungarian leadership would accelerate implementation, while Budapest appears to be taking a more cautious approach, prioritising a full review of the agreement.

Strategic implications for Hungary’s energy future

Paks II is one of Hungary’s most significant energy infrastructure investments, designed to expand nuclear capacity and ensure long-term electricity supply stability.

Any revision of the contract terms, timelines, or financing structure could have major implications for Hungary’s energy security strategy, as well as its cooperation with Russian nuclear technology amid broader geopolitical sensitivities.

For now, Rosatom says it is waiting for Hungary’s decision before moving forward with formal consultations.

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