Although Hungary’s conditions are suitable for the rational, environmentally, and socially acceptable use of wind energy, and the promotion of renewable energy production is a key social, economic, and energy policy priority, the development of the wind energy sector has been slow. Wind energy development was long constrained by the 12-kilometre minimum distance rule introduced in 2016, which made new projects nearly impossible near populated areas. This limitation was revised in 2024, when the minimum distance was reduced to 700 meters, creating the first real opportunity to reintroduce wind power. The current draft builds on that change, introducing additional measures to streamline approval processes and encourage investment.
Under the proposal, 17 designated districts – including areas around Győr, Komárom, Dunaújváros, Heves, Mezőtúr, Miskolc and Törökszentmiklós – would become priority development zones. In these regions, the permitting process would be faster, more transparent and more predictable. The amendment would increase the maximum turbine height from 130 meters to 199 meters, and remove the requirement to provide replacement agricultural land, significantly reducing administrative and financial burdens for developers.
The draft also clarifies the 50 MW capacity rule. For licensing purposes, a wind farm consisting of multiple turbines is considered a single power plant. However, if its total capacity reaches 50 MW, the Energy Authority may, upon request, issue separate licenses for sub-projects of under 50 MW each. Additionally, if several turbines connect to the grid at the same connection point, the Energy Authority may grant a combined small-scale generation license for up to 50 MW, based on the installed capacities listed in the construction permits. These rules allow for a more flexible, phased implementation of larger wind parks.
The amendment also refines the conditions for using airspace over neighboring properties. The permitting authority may approve such use without the neighboring owner’s consent if the lowest point of the turbine blade is at least 40 meters above ground level and the blade’s rotation does not interfere with the normal use of the adjacent property. This clarification improves both legal certainty and technical safety for developers.
The public consultation closed on 9 October, and the process has now entered the legislative phase. The Ministry of Energy is consolidating feedback and preparing the final version of the draft for governmental approval. If adopted, the new rules could enter into force in 2026, paving the way for the first new wind projects in more than a decade. The first wind farms built under the new regulations could be able to start commercial operation from 2029. These regulatory updates could mark a turning point for Hungary’s renewable energy landscape. By introducing taller turbines, clearly defined development zones and a more flexible permitting framework, the Government aims to attract new investments and accelerate the growth of wind power.