Hungary has signed a significant agreement with the United Kingdom to collaborate on developing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), marking a pivotal move for the landlocked nation as it seeks sustainable energy solutions. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto announced this partnership during a recent meeting with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, highlighting the advantageous expertise of Rolls-Royce, one of the leading firms globally recognized for its work on SMRs.
According to Szijjarto, "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 statement encapsulates Hungary's commitment to incorporating nuclear energy as part of its energy strategy. The bilateral agreement aims not only to accelerate the deployment of these advanced reactors but also to signify the strengthening ties between the two nations concerning energy independence and innovation.
Presently, Hungary operates the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, which was established during the 1980s using Soviet technology and is responsible for generating approximately half of the country's electricity. Alongside this, the Paks II project is underway, which will introduce two modern Russian-designed nuclear reactors to the existing power grid, expected to be connected by 2032.
Meanwhile, the UK is also positioning itself as a leader within the SMR space. Simon Bowen, chair of Great British Nuclear, emphasized the potential for deploying SMRs at sites like Oldbury and Berkeley Green, describing them as “prime sites” for future nuclear development. Orchestrated within the broader framework of the South West Regional nuclear hub, these locations are seen as integral to sustaining the UK’s energy needs and bolstering economic growth through high-quality job creation.
Bowen articulated the enthusiasm around these sites, stating, “There is a massive opportunity now with us purchasing Oldbury, and the separate Berkeley project nearby, and all the work Western Gateway has done with the Severn Edge project.” His remarks underline the anticipated synergy between the nuclear projects and regional skills, noting the local community’s acceptance of nuclear development due to the high-quality employment opportunities it offers.
The emergence of SMRs, particularly at the Oldbury site—which was previously identified by Rolls-Royce SMR as one of four ‘priority sites’—is expected to result not only in power generation but also significant economic benefits. Bowen suggests considering between four to six SMRs could be implemented at Oldbury, which would yield substantial skill development within the area.
Although Bowen made clear plans are still at the inaugural stages, the negotiations are being pursued with four credible vendors—GE-Hitachi, Holtec, Rolls-Royce SMR, and Westinghouse—each of whom could provide substantial supply chain engagement. He emphasized the manifold benefits for the UK, including potential GDP growth and export capacity.
With investments expected to be measured in the tens of billions, Bowen anticipates substantial job creation, estimating between 5,000 and 6,000 skilled positions could arise from SMR construction at Oldbury. Not only does this agreement between Hungary and the UK signal vibrant international collaboration, but it also reveals both nations' strategic focuses on nuclear technology as part of their broader energy agendas.
Looking forward, this partnership and the focus on SMR technology represent not just technological advancement but are indicative of broader shifts toward renewable and sustainable energy sources, responding to global trends and environmental needs. The intersection of these developments underlines the increasing importance of strategic nuclear partnerships as countries navigate their path toward energy security and sustainability.