Bangladesh set to start nuclear power generation as fuel loading begins at RNPP

Officials at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) launched the loading of the first batch of uranium to the first unit on Tuesday afternoon, completing the final stage before the start of the country’s first nuclear power generation.

The loading process typically takes 30-45 days, which will be followed by power generation on a trial basis, and finally, commercial operations in August.

Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahabub Anam launched the fuel loading process at a formal event. A recorded congratulatory speech from Rafael Mariano Grossi, chief of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), was also delivered.

Among the distinguished guests were Alexey Likhachev, director general of Rosatom, and PM’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister's Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman briefed reporters about the start of operations at RNPP, at a presser held at the Secretariat.

Initially, as much as 300 megawatts of electricity will be added to the national grid from the first unit in August this year, he said.

“This project will meet 10% of Bangladesh's total electricity demand and about two crore people will be benefited from it,” he informed reporters.