Hungary Increases Wind Power Tenders
Due to significantly higher-than-expected demand, Hungary will provide nearly 1,000 MW of new grid connection capacity for wind power projects, exceeding the 700 MW originally pledged to the European Union. Minister of Economy and Energy István Kapitány announced this on Facebook on July 17.
Strong Demand Leads to Greater Expansion
The expansion marks a significant shift in Hungary’s energy policy. After nearly a decade of virtually stagnant wind power expansion, significantly more projects are now set to be implemented than originally planned.
The expansion of wind energy had come to a virtual standstill since 2016 after the government at the time introduced strict distance regulations. Wind turbines were only allowed to be built at a great distance from residential areas, which virtually eliminated all suitable sites.
Relaxation of the rules paved the way
It wasn’t until 2024 that the regulations were relaxed. The minimum distances between wind turbines and residential areas were significantly reduced and brought into line with European standards, making new projects possible again. The reform was part of the energy measures Hungary committed to in connection with the release of funds from the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).
Kapitány explained that the program to expand wind energy and modernize the power grid is intended to create a more balanced energy system and eliminate existing grid bottlenecks.
Supplement to Solar Energy
According to the minister, the expansion of wind power is necessary to better complement the sharp increase in solar power production and to enhance long-term security of supply.
The government plans to expand installed wind power capacity to at least 4,000 MW by 2030. Currently, Hungary has only about 330 MW of installed wind power capacity.
Tenders to Begin After Consultation
According to Kapitány, a public consultation will begin as early as next week. The Hungarian Energy Regulatory Authority (MEKH) is expected to submit a detailed technical analysis of grid capacities by mid-August. The first tenders will then be published.
“The government is creating the necessary grid capacity, transparent rules, and a predictable investment environment,” Kapitány explained. The expansion of wind energy will strengthen Hungary’s energy independence, competitiveness, and long-term security of supply.