Imported electricity still plays a role in 2025
Hungary’s expanding solar fleet has not removed reliance on imported electricity, according to economic research institute GKI. Imports supplied 37% of electricity consumption in 2025, often during higher-priced morning and evening periods. GKI said surplus solar output was frequently exported during cheaper hours. The pattern highlighted the financial impact of insufficient storage and flexibility.
The mismatch affects industrial buyers because additional generation does not necessarily lower the cost of meeting demand across the full day. GKI warned that adding more solar capacity without complementary investment would leave Hungary exposed to expensive imports and gas-fired generation when demand is stronger and renewable output is lower. The report linked this exposure to the timing gap between solar production and electricity needs.
Generation mix shifts: solar rises, wind remains limited
Solar production has more than quadrupled since 2020 and accounted for about 25% of domestic electricity generation in 2025. Nuclear power remained the largest source at around 40%, followed by natural gas at 20%. Wind supplied just 1.5%, reflecting limited growth in installed capacity since 2016.
The analysis cited government plans to permit at least 4,000 MW of additional wind capacity during 2026–2030. It also warned that the delivery timetable could push substantial new output into later in the decade. GKI’s assessment placed emphasis on how generation additions may not translate into lower system costs without supporting measures.
Business power prices and network charges above European average
GKI identified business electricity costs as a competitiveness concern. It said network charges and costs linked to regulated household prices contribute to industrial electricity prices that are above the European average. The report connected these cost drivers to exposure faced by companies operating under day-to-day price volatility.
The study also pointed to investment risks around the Paks nuclear complex. Existing reactor licences expire between 2032 and 2037, while the completion timetable for Paks II remains uncertain. Continued operation of existing units would require approvals and equipment upgrades.
Paks II uncertainty and need for storage, transmission, and nuclear support
If delays affect both new reactors and lifetime extensions, available domestic generation could fall.
This would increase import requirements.
