The first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, a flagship project undertaken during Sheikh Hasina’s government, could begin supplying electricity to Bangladesh’s national grid on a trial basis within the next 8 to 10 weeks.
The 1,200-megawatt first unit is currently undergoing final-stage testing. If all tests and safety checks are completed successfully, electricity will be supplied to the national grid in phases. Commercial operation of the unit is planned for early next year.
Once operational, the first unit could significantly reduce Bangladesh’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. Energy experts estimate that the plant could help save up to $1 billion annually in fuel import costs, depending on the type and price of alternative fuels.
NPCBL Managing Director Jahedul Hasan said preparations are underway to begin grid synchronization within the next 6 to 8 weeks. However, he noted that the timeline cannot be confirmed until all testing and safety verification procedures are completed.
Fuel loading with uranium has already been completed in the first unit’s reactor. More than 100 tests have been conducted in two phases, while the plant is now undergoing its final and most sensitive tests. Each stage is being carried out following approval from the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority.
Nuclear expert Professor Dr. Md. Shafiqul Islam said nuclear power plants can provide continuous baseload electricity, reducing dependence on imported oil, gas and coal while also limiting the impact of volatility in international fuel prices and supply chains.
The transmission infrastructure required to connect Rooppur’s electricity to the national grid, including the Baghabari 230 kV, Bogura 400 kV and Gopalganj 400 kV facilities, is also nearing completion.
Rooppur has two units, each with a generation capacity of 1,200 megawatts. The project, initiated and advanced during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, is expected to mark a major milestone in Bangladesh’s power sector and strengthen the country’s long-term energy security once both units become fully operational.