Electricity in Hungary in 2024

As of 2024, Hungary's electricity consumption reflects a significant reliance on low-carbon energy sources. Low-carbon electricity, including nuclear power and solar energy, constitutes more than half of the energy mix, showcasing Hungary's commitment to clean energy. Nuclear power alone contributes over a third, indicating its central role in the country's low-carbon strategy. Furthermore, net imports account for almost a third of Hungary's electricity, suggesting a reliance on neighboring countries for energy needs. In contrast, fossil fuels, including gas and coal, contribute approximately a fifth of the electricity, underscoring the nation's ongoing dependence on more polluting energy sources. It is noteworthy that solar energy has also carved out a substantial space within the nation's low-carbon profile, further enhancing Hungary's clean energy portfolio.

Suggestions

To increase its share of low-carbon electricity, Hungary could capitalize on expanding existing nuclear and solar infrastructures. The high percentage of nuclear energy already in use suggests that further development in this sector could be particularly beneficial. Looking to countries such as Slovakia and Ukraine, where nuclear power accounts for about 60% and 55% of electricity generation respectively, Hungary can adopt strategies to boost its own nuclear capacities. Similarly, Denmark's successful wind energy model, accounting for 59% of its electricity, and Ireland's and Lithuania's use of wind energy covering over 30%, present models that Hungary could learn from to diversify and strengthen its low-carbon portfolio. By exploring advancements in solar and wind technologies, Hungary can learn from these successes to bolster its clean energy footprint and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

History

Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Hungary has seen various phases. In the early and mid-1980s, the country significantly increased its nuclear capacity, adding an average of 2 TWh annually between 1983 and 1988. However, the early 2000s witnessed a downturn, with a notable decline of -2.9 TWh in nuclear generation in 2003, yet a steady recovery from 2004 onwards. In terms of solar energy, significant progress has been made over recent years, particularly from 2019 to 2023, with incremental increases each year. However, 2024 saw a decline in both solar and nuclear outputs, indicating potential challenges that need to be addressed to achieve continued growth in low-carbon electricity generation. Additionally, a slight decrease in biofuels marks 2024 as a year of reassessment for Hungary's energy strategies, focusing on the reinforcement of its clean energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources