Rooppur Unit 1 Awaits Stage C Approval

Unit 1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant under construction in Ishwardi, Pabna, has completed the B-2 phase physical test and other required tests and activities. Reports on the tests have been submitted to the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA). Once the regulator grants final approval, the unit can proceed to Stage C, also known as power startup, a key preparatory phase before electricity generation. Entry into Stage C, delivery of electricity to the national grid and commercial operation, however, are three separate milestones.

Reactor power to be raised gradually

Project officials said reactor power will be increased in stages during Stage C to verify the performance of the plant’s major equipment and systems. The process is intended to assess the unit’s ability to operate safely, steadily and reliably, as well as its readiness to supply electricity to the national grid.

Dr Zahedul Hasan, managing director of Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL), said the tests would cover the reactor, primary and secondary systems, turbine-generator, electrical systems, instrumentation and control systems, and safety and security systems. Their proper coordination will also be verified.

He said the performance of critical equipment and systems would be monitored as reactor power increases. Particular attention would be given to whether the turbine’s control and protection systems, generator and associated electrical systems function correctly under normal operating conditions.

Grid connection a key milestone

Hasan said one of the most important milestones in Stage C would be successfully connecting the generator to the national electricity grid. The process would assess whether the plant can supply electricity steadily while maintaining synchronisation with the grid. Ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the plant’s systems would remain a priority.

After the required tests are completed satisfactorily, commissioning conditions are met and regulatory approval is obtained, the unit can move towards the next phase, known as pilot operation or trial operation, he said.

Further checks before commercial operation

Starting Stage C does not itself mean that electricity supply to the national grid or commercial generation has begun. The unit must complete the prescribed technical tests, commissioning activities and safety verifications at each stage. Applicable regulatory approvals and conditions must also be met.

Completion of the B-2 tests is therefore an important step towards the next stage of commissioning at Rooppur Unit 1. However, the information provided does not establish a confirmed date for the start of Stage C, the beginning of grid electricity supply or the commencement of commercial operation.

//DBTech/Correspondent/Edited/Output//