Bangladesh's First Nuclear Power Plant Begins Power Start-Up Operations

Bangladesh has taken a major step towards nuclear energy production after the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) began power start-up operations on October 30, 2026.

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) approved the next phase of operations on October 29, allowing Unit 1 to move into Stage C of its commissioning process. The start-up activities began the following morning.

According to BAERA Chairman Mahmudul Hasan, the plant is conducting turbine checks and other technical tests. Electricity generated during this initial phase is being used for the facility's internal operations rather than being supplied to the national grid.

During Stage C, engineers will gradually increase reactor power while monitoring the performance of the reactor, turbine-generator, electrical systems and safety equipment. Officials have said that another inspection will take place when generation reaches 300 megawatts. If the results are satisfactory, the plant can seek further approval to supply electricity to the national grid.

Unit 1 must also obtain an additional certification, known as Certification D, before beginning trial electricity supply. Project information indicates that the process could take another 15 to 20 days, subject to successful testing and regulatory approval.

Located in Ishwardi, in Bangladesh's Pabna district, the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is the country's first nuclear power facility. The project consists of two Russian-designed VVER-1200 reactors, each with a planned capacity of 1,200 megawatts, giving the plant a combined capacity of 2,400 megawatts.

The project is being developed with technical support from Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom. Meanwhile, preparations for the second unit are also progressing, with nuclear fuel supply activities underway.

Once operational, Rooppur is expected to become an important part of Bangladesh's electricity generation system, helping diversify the country's energy sources and support long-term energy security.

However, the first unit must complete its remaining commissioning tests and receive the necessary approvals before it can deliver electricity to the national grid.