The first phase of electricity generation at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is set to begin on Tuesday. On this day, fuel loading will start in the first unit of the plant. Fuel loading is the initial step toward power generation. Afterward, electricity production will begin gradually following a series of tests.
In August, Prime Minister Tarek Rahman will officially inaugurate the power transmission activities. Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to join the inauguration ceremony virtually.
A total of 163 uranium fuel assemblies will be loaded in phases. After completing tests in three stages, the first unit is expected to officially begin generating 300 megawatts of electricity by the end of August. The uranium fuel had already arrived in the country earlier. All preliminary tests have been completed in accordance with the guidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The first unit is expected to be fully operational by the end of this year, while the second unit will be launched next year.
Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam told Energy Bangla that all preparations for fuel loading at Rooppur have been completed. He confirmed that Prime Minister Tarek Rahman will inaugurate the project in August and that Vladimir Putin may join the event virtually.
The minister also stated that fuel loading for the second unit will begin in June 2027. By September of the same year, both units are expected to be connected to the national grid.
He further added that the national grid is fully prepared for power transmission and that there are no security risks.
The minister clarified that there is no connection between the plant’s operation and the repayment of dues to Russia, noting that payments are being made regularly through banks.
Former Chairman of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Shaukat Akbar, told Energy Bangla that the fuel assemblies will be loaded one by one. After all fuel is loaded, several stages of testing will be conducted. Uranium fission will then begin, which may take one to one and a half months. Electricity generated during the testing phase will be used for the plant’s internal needs before being supplied to the national grid. The fuel will last for about three years.
The foundation stone of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant was laid on October 2, 2013. After nearly 13 years, Bangladesh is finally set to generate electricity from nuclear energy.
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad stated that electricity generation and supply to the national grid will begin after completing all tests in accordance with IAEA guidelines.
