Between September 2025 and August 2026, Hungary has made remarkable strides in ensuring a significant portion of its electricity comes from low-carbon sources. Over 60% of electricity consumed during this period was generated from clean sources, with nuclear power contributing more than half of this, at approximately 32%. Solar energy has been responsible for nearly 22% of Hungary’s electricity consumption, underscoring its vital role in the country's energy landscape. Unfortunately, fossil fuels still account for nearly 20% of electricity, predominantly coming from gas. This is complemented by net imports, constituting about 20% of electricity consumption. Despite biofuels and wind also contributing to the low-carbon sector, their shares remain relatively modest.

Is Electricity Growing in Hungary?

However, the trend in Hungary’s electricity consumption indicates a decline, which is a concerning sign amidst the global push for increased electrification. In 2026, the average electricity consumption per person was around 4677 kWh, which is a reduction of 217 kWh from the previous high in 2025. The decrease is mirrored in low-carbon electricity generation, falling to 2822 kWh per person, a decline of 148 kWh from 2025. This downward trend in electricity usage, particularly clean energy, hinders Hungary’s progress towards sustainable development and combating the adverse impacts of fossil fuels such as climate change and air pollution. Accelerating the growth in low-carbon electricity generation is crucial to supporting future energy demands and ensuring a greener future.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Hungary could focus on expanding both its nuclear and solar capacity, building upon its existing strengths in these areas. Observing successful practices worldwide, Hungary could take inspiration from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy contributes around 67% and 66% respectively to their electricity mix. For solar expansion, Hungary can look towards states like Nevada, where solar power provides a significant share of their electricity. Moreover, leveraging wind power could further diversify Hungary’s clean energy portfolio. While Hungary isn't comparable to windy places like Iowa or Denmark, exploring offshore or onshore wind possibilities could offer additional opportunities to bolster green energy generation.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Hungary highlights a series of developments, particularly in the nuclear and solar sectors. From the early 1980s, nuclear energy saw a robust increase each year until the late 1980s. However, 2003 marked a noticeable decline in nuclear generation, and while there were attempts to reinvigorate this resource afterward, 2020 and 2026 witnessed further setbacks. In recent years, Hungary has seen promising advances in solar energy, starting with modest growth in 2019 and gaining momentum over subsequent years. The considerable solar expansion from 2020 onwards is laudable and signifies a pivotal shift towards sustainable electricity generation. Despite the mixed history, these strides in nuclear and solar sectors stand as a testament to Hungary’s potential in advancing its clean energy ambitions.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.