Rooppur Nuclear power startup is planned for October 25

Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant of Bangladesh is targeting electricity supply to the national grid in December, but uncertainty remains over whether the schedule can be met. The next phase of power startup is planned for October 25, according to project-related sources. The reactor’s power level is expected to be raised gradually, with an initial supply of 300 megawatts (MW) possible once it reaches 35% power and the required tests and regulatory approvals are completed. Any technical issue during testing could delay the planned timeline.

According to sources at the Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL), the reactor’s power level will be increased in stages following the startup process. Each stage will involve technical tests and verification of key operating parameters. If the results are satisfactory, the plant could move towards electricity generation in the final week of November, potentially paving the way for grid supply in December.

Project sources estimate that reaching 35% power from the initial startup stage could take around 40 days. However, the actual duration will depend on test results and technical conditions. If a test fails, the relevant issue must be resolved and the test repeated, potentially pushing back the start of electricity generation.

Project-related sources say testing of the reactor’s fission reaction and other technical parameters is under way. Once the relevant work is completed, the next phase of power startup will proceed subject to approval from the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA). The reactor’s power level will then be increased gradually to assess the performance of the electricity-generation systems.

From Fission to Electricity Generation

In a nuclear power plant, controlled nuclear fission produces heat. That heat is used to generate steam, which drives a turbine connected to an electrical generator. Therefore, starting a nuclear fission reaction is not the same as beginning electricity supply to the national grid. Each intervening stage requires technical verification and safety checks.

According to project sources, the plant is undergoing physical startup activities, including tests of equipment and reactor parameters. These tests initially take place at low thermal power. If the results are satisfactory, thermal power will be increased gradually to prepare for turbine operation. The turbine, generator and associated electrical systems must be checked to ensure they operate safely and as intended. The necessary regulatory approvals from BAERA remain an important part of this process.

Trial Operation Could Take Around 10 Months

Following power startup, another major stage will be trial operation. During this phase, the plant’s performance will be assessed under different operating conditions by increasing and decreasing output. Tests will also examine coordination with the national grid, the stability of electricity supply and the effectiveness of relevant safety systems.

Project sources estimate that this extended trial-operation phase could take around 10 months. During this period, Bangladeshi operators will work alongside Russian contractor specialists to strengthen their skills in plant operation, technical monitoring and emergency response. Temporary shutdowns may also be required to conduct specific tests.

The estimated 10-month period relates to the broader trial-operation phase and should not be interpreted as a requirement to wait another 10 months before the first electricity supply. The timing of initial grid supply will depend on the commissioning schedule, test results and applicable regulatory requirements.

December Target Faces Uncertainty

Project officials say electricity generation could begin by December if the planned programme proceeds as expected. However, unexpected problems during the final stages of testing could extend the timeline. For a nuclear power plant, confirming a specific commissioning date is difficult before the relevant technical and safety assessments are completed.

Other project-related sources have also expressed reservations about meeting the December target. Even a relatively minor technical problem could require corrective work and additional testing. Although December remains the target, it cannot yet be treated as a confirmed deadline. The final schedule will depend on the results of commissioning tests and the necessary regulatory approvals.

IAEA Mission to Review Emergency Preparedness

Meanwhile, a visit by a delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is planned to review Bangladesh’s preparedness for nuclear emergencies and related safety arrangements at Rooppur, according to project-related sources.

The sources say the IAEA’s Emergency Preparedness Review (EPREV) mission is scheduled to take place in Bangladesh from November 8 to 18. The review is expected to examine the country’s preparedness, coordination and response capabilities in the event of a nuclear emergency. The specific dates and programme should, however, be confirmed against an official announcement from the IAEA or the relevant Bangladeshi authorities.

Two Units Designed for 2,400 MW

Located in Ishwardi, Pabna, the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant comprises two units, each designed to generate 1,200 MW of electricity. Once both units operate at full capacity, the plant will have a combined planned capacity of 2,400 MW.

Achieving the initial target of supplying 300 MW from the first unit would mark an important milestone in Bangladesh’s adoption of nuclear power for electricity generation. However, successful completion of technical tests and all required regulatory approvals remains essential to ensuring safe and reliable electricity supply to the national grid.

//DBTech/IH/SMP/MIST//