Serbia at doorstep of nuclear era: Here is what EXACTLY 5-10% stake in Hungarian PAKS II would mean

Photo: Promo

Hungary has officially started the construction of new reactors at the PAKS II nuclear power plant, a project that is considered crucial for the energy future of the region. Serbia is considering buying a 5 to 10 percent stake, which would represent the first concrete step towards a return to nuclear energy after more than three decades.

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In early February, the project moved from the preparatory phase to being under construction. Hungarian officials say that it is a symbol of energy sovereignty and long-term stability, since the operating life time of a nuclear power plant is at least 60 years, with the possibility of extending that period. Experts assess that a stable production of electricity in an EU member contributes to the greater security of the entire region.

RTS journalist Ruzica Vranjkovic, who covers energy, is reminding that Serbia has repeatedly expressed interest in participating in this project, stressing that such a move would be significant not only for energy security, but also for developing a professional workforce, and having access to modern technologies.

Director of the Vinca Nuclear Sciences Institute Slavko Dimovic believes that Serbia's entry into the PAKS II ownership structure would have primarily strategic and psychological significance. According to him, the purchase of a minority share represents a good but insufficient step towards complete energy sovereignty, while at the same time opening the door to the accelerated formation of the personnel base and more serious communication with the public.

Dimovic added that in the long term, Serbia needs not only investments in regional projects, but also development of its own capacities. According to him, the country needs at least two conventional nuclear reactors, as well as small modular reactors, and that buying a stake in PAKS II should not rule out construction of nuclear plants at home.

The PAKS II power plant is being built by the Russian Rosatom on a turnkey basis, with the participation of a French partner in the technological process. These are reactors of the latest generation with improved safety systems and the highest standards of radiation and nuclear safety.

One of the key arguments in favor of nuclear energy is stable and continuous production, independent of weather conditions. Vranjkovic said that Hungary can already boast of one of the lowest electricity prices in Europe, while nuclear power plants provide the basic energy necessary for industrial and development of new technologies, including artificial intelligence.

Dimovic stressed that social acceptability is crucial for the success of any nuclear program. Although personnel, technology and finances are necessary, without public support, these project cannot take root, which is why it is important that the entire process is transparent and understandable to citizens.

If Serbia decides to participate in PAKS II, after more than 35 years, the country could be taking the first concrete step towards returning to nuclear energy, within the broader strategy of ensuring a stable and long term electricity supply at favorable prices.

(Telegraf Biznis/RTS)