Hungary will make nearly 1,000MW of new grid connection capacity available for wind power projects, exceeding its 700MW commitment to the European Union due to stronger-than-expected demand, Economy and Energy Minister Istvan Kapitany announced on Facebook on July 17.

The expansion would mark a major shift after almost a decade of limited wind power development in Hungary. New wind projects effectively stalled after restrictions introduced in 2016 made investment difficult by limiting turbine locations near populated areas.

Regulations were eased in 2024, reducing minimum distance requirements and opening the way for renewed development. However, the change came after the change of government as the government sealed an agreement with the EU in unlocking RRF funds.

Kapitany said the programme to expand wind power and upgrade the grid is designed to create a more balanced electricity system and remove bottlenecks.

The expansion of wind power was needed to create a more balanced electricity system, complementing Hungary’s rapidly growing solar capacity and improving energy security.

The government plans to provide at least 4,000 MW of new wind power connection opportunities by 2030, up from 330 MW at present.

A public consultation will be launched next week, and energy regulator MEKH is expected to prepare a detailed technical and grid assessment by mid-August, according to Kapitany. After that, the first tenders would be announced.

The government is ensuring the required grid capacity, transparent rules and a predictable investment environment," he said, adding that expanding wind power capacities serves Hungary's energy independence, competitiveness and the long-term security of its energy supply.