Hungary Forges New Nuclear Alliance with the U.S., Diversifying Energy Sources

Hungary is set to sign a significant nuclear energy cooperation agreement with the United States, marking a strategic shift in its energy policy. The deal includes the purchase of American nuclear fuel and advanced U.S. technology for storing spent nuclear fuel at the Russian-built Paks nuclear power plant. This move comes as Hungary seeks to bolster its energy independence and diversify away from Russian supplies, a topic also on the agenda during discussions between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Key Takeaways

• Hungary will purchase American nuclear fuel for its existing Russian-built nuclear plant.
• The U.S. will provide technology for the safe storage of spent nuclear fuel at the Paks facility.
• The agreement encompasses cooperation on small modular nuclear reactors.
• This deal signifies a move towards greater energy diversification for Hungary.

A New Era for Hungarian Nuclear Energy

Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto announced that a major intergovernmental agreement on nuclear energy cooperation would be signed with the U.S. This landmark deal will see Hungary procure American nuclear fuel for its Paks nuclear power plant, a facility currently undergoing expansion with reactors being built by Russia’s Rosatom. This marks the first time Hungary will purchase nuclear fuel from the United States, diversifying its supply chain beyond its traditional Russian partner.

Enhancing Safety and Exploring Future Technologies

Beyond fuel procurement, the agreement includes the acquisition of U.S. technology designed for the safe and secure storage of spent nuclear fuel directly at the Paks plant. This technological transfer aims to enhance the plant’s operational safety and waste management capabilities. Furthermore, the cooperation extends to the development and potential deployment of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), signaling Hungary’s interest in next-generation nuclear power solutions. This aligns with Hungary’s previous announcement of a partnership with Poland’s Synthos Green Energy, which holds rights to GE Vernova Hitachi’s SMR technology in Central Europe.

Strategic Energy Diversification

Hungary’s decision to engage more deeply with the U.S. in the nuclear sector occurs against a backdrop of complex geopolitical energy dynamics. While Hungary has maintained relations with Moscow, it is also exploring avenues to reduce its reliance on Russian energy. The timing of this announcement, coinciding with talks between Prime Minister Orban and President Trump, underscores the strategic importance of energy security and diversification in bilateral discussions. The U.S. has consistently encouraged European nations to reduce their energy dependence on Russia and explore alternative sources, including American nuclear technology and fuel.

Sources

• Hungary to buy US nuclear fuel and technology to store spent fuel, foreign minister says, Reuters.

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