Fact Check: The Paks nuclear power plant operates four VVER-440 reactors.

Fact Check: "The Paks nuclear power plant operates four VVER-440 reactors."

What We Know

The Paks Nuclear Power Plant, located in Hungary, is the country's only operating nuclear power facility and consists of four VVER-440 reactors. These reactors were designed in the Soviet Union and are classified as pressurized water reactors (PWR) with a nominal output of 440 megawatts each. The combined capacity of these reactors is approximately 2,000 megawatts, which accounts for over 50% of Hungary's electricity production as of 2019 (Paks Nuclear Power Plant, Hungary - World Nuclear Performance Report). The reactors at Paks were commissioned between 1982 and 1987, and they are of the VVER-440/V213 model, which includes safety enhancements compared to earlier designs (Hungary - World Nuclear Performance Report, Nuclear Power in Hungary).

Analysis

The claim that the Paks nuclear power plant operates four VVER-440 reactors is supported by multiple credible sources. The official description of the plant confirms that it operates four reactors of this type, specifically the VVER-440/V213 model, which is noted for its safety features and operational efficiency (Paks Nuclear Power Plant). Additionally, a report from Reuters corroborates this information, stating that the Paks plant has "four small Russian-built VVER 440 reactors" (Hungary licenses two new reactors at Paks nuclear plant).

Moreover, the World Nuclear Association provides detailed insights into the operational status and specifications of the reactors, affirming that the four VVER-440 reactors at Paks are indeed in operation (Hungary - World Nuclear Performance Report, Nuclear Power in Hungary). The consistency across these sources enhances their reliability, as they stem from reputable organizations and publications focused on nuclear energy.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "The Paks nuclear power plant operates four VVER-440 reactors" is accurate. The evidence from multiple credible sources consistently confirms the operational status and specifications of the reactors at the Paks Nuclear Power Plant.

Sources

1. Paks Nuclear Power Plant
2. Hungary licenses two new reactors at Paks nuclear plant
3. Programme TV de ce soir de toutes les chaines télé avec Télé-Loisirs
4. Programme tv ce soir toutes les chaînes - Téléobs
5. Hungary - World Nuclear Performance Report
6. Programme TV TNT ce soir avec Télé 7 Jours
7. Nuclear Power in Hungary
8. Programme TV ce soir sur la TNT - Ce soir à la télé