By Charmaine Ngatjiheue

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1681232156678-0'); }); Hungary has begun construction of the Paks II nuclear power plant (NPP), which will be the first facility in the European Union to feature third-generation VVER-1200 reactors.

First concrete was poured at a ceremony to mark the start of the project on Thursday. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

International Atomic Energy Agency director general Rafael Grossi, Hungarian minister of foreign affairs and trade Peter Szijjarto and Rosatom director general Alexey Likhachev were all present at the ceremony.

This is a key event in Hungary’s nuclear energy development and marks another important step with regard to peaceful uses of nuclear energy in Europe.

“This milestone event demonstrates the constructive and mutually beneficial relationship between our two countries,” Likhachev said.

“The Paks II NPP represents a logical development of our long-term cooperation in the field of nuclear energy. The Paks II NPP is undoubtedly a strategic move for Hungary that brings a number of substantial benefits to the country and drives its economic growth. As for Rosatom, the project is another confirmation of its leadership position in the nuclear industry and a contribution to the growth of Russian industry.”

On 4 November 2025 the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority issued permits which allowed construction crews to proceed with pouring first concrete into Paks II and constructing other buildings on the nuclear island.

The project is fully compliant with international, European and national safety requirements. This includes an integrated approach to safety systems, both active and passive.

The Hungarian power plant further reinforces Rosatom’s role as a vital global energy partner.

The company also spearheads several major nuclear projects in Africa, such as Egypt’s NPP El-Dabaa’s construction.

Rosatom has also recently advanced preparations for a nuclear power project in Ethiopia.

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