The preparation of the geophysical measurements began around Dunapataj, Dunaszentbenedek, Foktő, Géderlak, Kalocsa, Ordas and Uszód in Bács-Kiskun County on 1 August, and is continuing around Dunaszentgyörgy, Gerjen, Madocsa, Paks, Pusztahencse, Tengelic and Fadd in Tolna County from 15 August, in a total area of about 294 km2. As commissioned by MVM Paks II. Ltd., Poland’s Geofyzika Torun S. A. and its Hungarian subcontractor, TDE Services LLC, are carrying out the works. The explorations were authorised by the Hungarian Office for Mining and Geology through the Pécs Regional Mining Authority, and the implementation works were started by taking into account the conditions and restrictions set by the relevant authorities, including specialist authorities, as set out in the exploration licence. The explorations are necessary for the site assessment of the two new nuclear power plant units planned to be established on the site of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant. These measurements and the further steps of preparation will provide grounds for the long-term safe operation of the new generation units.

Site assessment and evaluation form integral parts of the tasks preceding the establishment of the new nuclear power plant units, which are aimed at exploring risks arising from natural and human activities which potentially invalidate the suitability of the site, and identifying the risks and conditions that have to be taken into account for the design of the new nuclear power plant units and the analysis of their safety. Knowledge of the Earth’s crust is a prerequisite for determining earthquake risks and this is served by the 3D seismic measurements.

During the 3D seismic measurements, survey points are staked out, sensor cables and vibration detectors (geophones) are placed on the ground, then vibrations are generated artificially with self-propelled vibrators and – at a few test points outside inhabited areas – small amounts of explosives placed at shallow depths. Reflected back deep from the ground, vibration waves provide valuable information about the stratigraphic and tectonic conditions of the ground and the underlying rocks.
During the first stage of the measurement programme, i.e. the installation of the vibration detectors and their cables, the test area has to be partially cleared of tall agricultural crops, such as sunflower and maize, in a 2-metre wide strip. The owners of the affected plots of land have been informed about this in advance. The geodesy experts will use their best efforts to minimise the impact of their activities on the natural and built environment, as well as real properties. Should any damage still be incurred to a real property, the contractor company will assess it in accordance with the legislation in force and will indemnify the owner within 30 days. MVM Paks II. Ltd. will assume full liability for such indemnification and has accumulated provisions for possible payments.

The executives of our Company are also holding resident information meetings in all municipalities concerned at the following dates and times:

 
All those interested can get responses to their questions and remarks about the exploration on our freephone green number (+36 [80] 629-922).