Hungary declared a state of emergency/AP from August. The reason for this was the energy crisis, which is observed in a large part of Europe.
The corresponding decision was made by the Hungarian government following the results of the ministerial meeting. This was stated by the head of the prime minister's office, Gergeli Gulyas, during a briefing, Channel 24 reports.
According to Gulyas, it became clear that there would not be enough natural gas for the heating season in Europe, so the government adopted a seven-point plan, which will come into force from August. According to him, the Hungarian gas storage facilities are 44% full, which will last a quarter of a year.
The purpose of the emergency, according to him, is “preparation for an energy crisis, strengthening energy security and protecting against a decrease in utilities against the backdrop of further growth in energy prices”.
The head of the administration of the Hungarian prime minister did not rule out that the government is preparing for possible emergency shutdowns. This may happen when the gas stops completely, but for now it is not worth talking about it, Gulyas believes.
What steps will Hungary take
The country will increase domestic gas production from 1.5 to 2 billion cubic meters. At present, Hungary's gas storage facilities are 44% full, which will provide the entire country with gas for about a quarter of the year.
By the end of the year, Hungary will also significantly increase domestic production of lignite and ban the export of energy and firewood. The government will continue to contain gas prices for households.
In addition, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó was instructed to negotiate additional gas supplies. Recall that earlier Hungary introduced restrictions on the sale of gasoline at gas stations to protect citizens from inflation.
