The first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant has moved a step closer to electricity generation after successfully completing its B-2 phase physics tests and other required technical tests.
Detailed reports on the tests have been submitted to the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) for review.
Dr Md Zahedul Hasan, managing director of the Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Ltd (NPCBL), said on Saturday that the unit would enter the “C stage”, or power startup phase, once it receives final approval from the regulator.
The progress was also reported to the ministry at a recent meeting with a Russian delegation, he said.
Project sources said power startup is targeted for the end of October, subject to BAERA’s approval. Generation will initially begin at a low level and gradually increase.
The unit is expected to start supplying electricity to the national grid once it reaches 25–30% of its capacity. At least 300MW could be added to the grid by the end of this year, according to the project timeline.
The start of commercial operations will mark a major milestone for Bangladesh, strengthening its energy security and technological capabilities while bringing the country into the ranks of nuclear power-producing nations.
Built by Rosatom’s Atomstroyexport division, the plant will have two Generation III+ VVER-1200 reactors with a combined capacity of 2,400MW.
The project deadline has been extended to June 2028, while the estimated cost has risen to Tk138,686 crore due toйна the depreciation of the taka against the US dollar.
Why it matters
The progression of Rooppur Unit 1 toward commercial operations represents a major milestone for national energy security and positions Bangladesh among nuclear power-producing nations.