The Hungarian nuclear regulator has approved a preliminary safety report for the Paks nuclear power plant expansion, paving the way for the project’s first concrete pouring milestone, Hungary’s minister of foreign affairs and trade Péter Szijjártó announced.

The Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority safety report was prepared following significant groundwork, including the construction of a ground cut-off wall and extensive soil improvement efforts, said a statement by project owner MVM Paks II.

Szijjártó said first concrete for the two-unit Paks 2 nuclear station is expected at the beginning of 2025.