Hungary prepares emergency power restrictions, Paks nuclear plant could shut down this weekend

Hungary is preparing for emergency power restrictions as the Paks Nuclear Power Plant faces a potential total shutdown as early as this weekend. The facility, which provides nearly half of the country’s electricity, relies on water from the River Danube for cooling purposes.

Exceptionally low water levels in the Danube, caused by a prolonged lack of rain, have necessitated these emergency energy-saving measures. Beyond the impact on the power plant, the receding water levels have also caused significant disruptions to shipping and tourism throughout the region.