In Hungary, the current state of electricity consumption is characterized by a strong reliance on low-carbon energy sources, with low-carbon electricity accounting for more than half of the country's total consumption. Nuclear energy alone provides close to a third of Hungary's electricity, highlighting its significant role in the nation's energy mix. Solar energy also plays a crucial role, contributing almost a fifth to the total electrical output, which marks it as a growing cornerstone of Hungary's clean energy strategy. Net imports also make up more than a fifth, while fossil fuels account for about a fifth, with gas being the dominant fossil energy source and coal contributing just under 5%. Together, biofuels and wind comprise a smaller, but noteworthy, portion of the low-carbon generation.
Is Electricity Growing in Hungary?
Recent data point to a slight increase in electricity usage in Hungary. With a recent consumption rate of 5061 kWh per person, the nation has surpassed its previous record set in 2021 by a modest 29 kWh per person. More impressively, low-carbon electricity generation has increased dramatically with the latest figures reaching 2908 kWh per person, a significant rise of 298 kWh compared to the previous record in 2023. This growth in low-carbon electricity highlights an encouraging shift towards cleaner energy sources. While the overall increase in electricity consumption is gradual, the expansion in clean energy generation is promising and points to a sustainable direction for future energy policies.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Hungary can expand its existing nuclear and solar capacities. Given that nuclear power is already a backbone of Hungarian energy, following the example of Slovakia and France, where nuclear accounts for a substantial portion of electricity, could prove beneficial. Hungary can also learn from neighboring countries with successful solar programs, such as Lebanon, where solar plays a significant role. Collaboratively, leveraging Hungarian expertise and international know-how in both nuclear and solar sectors will bolster clean electricity generation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and help mitigate climate change impacts.
History
Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Hungary has been characterized by significant strides in nuclear power, particularly in the 1980s. During this decade, consistent annual increases in nuclear energy outputs solidified its place in Hungary's energy landscape. However, the early 2000s saw a setback with a significant decline in nuclear generation in 2003, though this was quickly followed by recovery efforts in subsequent years. The past decade has marked a surge in solar energy development, with notable increases each year, particularly from 2019 onwards. These developments parade a pattern of resilience and progressiveness towards a low-carbon future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.