On January 29, 2025, Hungary and the United Kingdom entered a significant agreement aimed at fostering the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), marking a strategic collaboration between the two nations focused on enhancing nuclear energy capabilities. This announcement was made by Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto during his meeting with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy in London.
Szijjarto emphasized the urgency of advancing nuclear energy, stating, “We are a landlocked country…for us, nuclear energy is the real solution, and Rolls-Royce here in Great Britain is one of the world’s leading companies in the development of small modular reactors.” This collaboration signifies Hungary’s intention to adopt innovative nuclear technologies, capitalizing on the expertise of the British firm known for its prowess in SMR development.
The agreement aims not only at unlocking the technological potential of SMRs but also at accelerating their deployment within Hungary. Szijjarto pointed out the practical applications of this technology, stating, “This would mean we could build small nuclear power plants on the size of a football pitch within two or three years, which would…ensure…an efficient…energy supply for cities or larger factories.” Such advances could transform Hungary’s approach to energy production, shifting toward more sustainable and efficient sources.
Currently, Hungary relies heavily on the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, which has been operational since the 1980s and accounts for about 50% of the nation’s electricity supply. Alongside this, the country is also developing the Paks II project, which aims to introduce two additional modern reactors, expected to be connected to the grid by around 2032. These developments highlight Hungary’s commitment to eleviating its energy independence and securing reliable power sources.
The geopolitical backdrop includes Hungary’s cautious view of developments within the European Union post-Brexit. The Hungarian government has expressed concerns about the loss of balance between federalist and nationalist forces within the EU. According to Szijjarto and echoed by the Hungarian Foreign Ministry, there is a sentiment of regret over Brexit, with the officials claiming, “We regret Brexit, because the EU lost some common sense and its balance between federalists and sovereigntists has shifted.” They argue this shift has ramifications on the EU’s competitiveness and political influence globally.
Despite the setbacks from Brexit, Hungary advocates for continued strong ties with the UK. The agreement on SMRs presents both nations with opportunities to excel within the nuclear sector, providing mutually beneficial outcomes. Hungary’s quest for advanced nuclear technology to address its energy needs is not just practical but also strategic, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and align more closely with sustainable energy practices.
This collaboration is particularly important for Hungary, where the geographical constraints necessitate innovative approaches to energy production. The establishment of SMRs offers the potential for localized power generation, enhancing energy security for Hungarian cities and industries.
Overall, Hungary’s strategic partnership with the UK for the development of SMRs underlines the broader trend of nations seeking to innovate within the nuclear energy sector. With the commitment from both the Hungarian and British governments to advance this technology, the future appears promising for the region’s energy strategy, reinforcing the role of nuclear energy as pivotal within national infrastructures.
Both countries will benefit from this agreement by fostering technological advancements and enhancing energy security, which may set precedents for future collaborations among nations sharing similar energy aspirations.