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Further blocks should be added to Paks expansion plans, says minister

János Süli, minister without portfolio in charge of the upgrade of the Paks nuclear plant, suggested that two new blocks should be added to meet increased demand in future

Further blocks may be added to plans for the Paks nuclear power project to cater for Hungary's growing energy sector, it has been revealed.

János Süli, minister without portfolio in charge of the upgrade of the Paks nuclear plant, suggested that two new blocks should be added to meet increased demand in future.

According to MTI, the minister argued that the country’s power demand could reach 5,000 megawatts by 2030, then there will be further calls to expand the plant.

Minister Süli said the construction of the site buildings will start in January, while construction of the actual blocks will begin in 2020.

He added that the new blocks will be completed in 2026 and 2027, respectively.

The project will also include between 60 and 70 site buildings such as assembly halls, workshops, and office, and employ a staff force of over 8,000, he added.

The minister also pointed out that 30-32 percent of Hungary’s electricity is imported at the present time, and the new blocks are expected to utilise 93 percent of their capacity.