A Technology-Driven, Pragmatic Path to Net Zero

We’re excited to share highlights from our recent interview with Károly Mátrai, CEO of MVM Group, conducted during the Go Net Zero Energy 2025 summit in Budapest.

MVM has set ambitious sustainability goals. Can you share the key pillars of your strategy for achieving net zero, and what milestones you aim to reach in the next decade?

“Our strategy is centered on advancing sustainability while safeguarding national energy supply security. We are committed to driving the green transition through a balanced, pragmatic approach, built on four key pillars: expanding our low-carbon energy portfolio, diversifying our operations, maintaining financial excellence, and strengthening customer-focused, adaptive solutions. MVM also places strong emphasis on digital innovation to boost efficiency and accelerate our progress on sustainability objectives. While we align our ambitions with both national and European climate targets, we recognize that achieving carbon neutrality requires a realistic, technology-driven pathway that remains responsive to evolving economic and geopolitical landscapes.  Several transformative projects are already underway, with key low-carbon initiatives planned across the next decade.”

What are the biggest challenges MVM faces in transitioning to a net-zero future, and how is the company overcoming them?

“Like every energy company, MVM Group faces the challenge of pursuing net-zero ambitions while maintaining economic profitability, system stability, and security of supply. Our companies are actively addressing these challenges by investing in flexible assets, advancing fuel transition, and enhancing both our organizational and financial efficiency. We are preparing to replace our last coal-fired power plant with hydrogen-ready gas-fired power plants -an important step that will also support greater integration of renewables into the grid. Additionally, the constantly evolving regulatory landscape, market conditions, and geopolitical dynamics demand ongoing engagement with policymakers and stakeholders to build a supportive framework for our green transition.”

How is MVM balancing the role of renewables, nuclear, and other energy sources in its journey towards sustainability? Are there any breakthrough innovations or projects you are particularly excited about?

“Maintaining a secure and reliable grid requires a balanced energy mix. While we continue to expand our renewable portfolio each year, we also place a strong emphasis on strengthening our balancing capacities. We view the use of nuclear energy and natural gas in electricity production as a transitional solution to ensure system stability as renewable capacity increases. To enhance grid efficiency, our electricity distribution companies are working to install 89,103 smart meters by the end of February 2026. In parallel, all our subsidiaries are exploring modern solutions, such as energy storage to effectively manage the variability of clean energy sources.”

You’ve just taken part in the Go Net Zero Energy Summit, what are your impressions of the event?

“Although the two-day conference has just begun, it’s already clear that Globuc has done an excellent job, with highly professional organization and a well-curated lineup of industry experts. I am also honored that the MVM Group is participating as a Silver Partner, represented by several C-level speakers. The agenda presents a thoughtfully selected mix of presentations and panel discussions that address the most pressing topics in the energy sector, featuring leading voices from across the industry. I wish I could attend every session myself; however, several of my colleagues will be staying to follow the event closely.”