RNPP starts generating power for internal use

The first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) began its power start-up operation on Friday, generating electricity for the plant’s own use as it moves towards supplying power to the national grid.

“Power start-up operations for Unit-1 commenced this morning after receiving permission on Thursday,” Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) Chairman Mahmudul Hasan said.

He said BAERA had granted permission for the start-up on Thursday, allowing the plant authorities to begin tests for power generation. He sought everyone's prayers for the successful start of electricity generation.

The electricity generated at this stage is being used for the plant's internal activities, he said.

“Turbine checks are now under way and will continue. Once generation reaches 300 megawatts (MW), another inspection will be conducted. If everything is found satisfactory, permission will be given to supply electricity to the national grid,” Mahmudul Hasan said.

According to the RNPP project, Unit-1 must obtain another certification, known as Stage D, before supplying its first nuclear-generated electricity to the grid.

The project details indicate that it may take 15 to 20 days to reach the next stage and begin trial supply to the national grid.

Meanwhile, Russia's Rosatom has begun supplying nuclear fuel for the initial loading of the VVER-1200 reactor at Unit-2 of the plant.

Before connecting to the national grid and starting trial commercial operations, Unit-2 will also have to undergo further power-ascension tests and secure the necessary regulatory approvals, Rosatom said.

The RNPP, Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant, has two Russian-designed Generation III+ VVER-1200 reactors with a combined capacity of 2,400MW. Rosatom's Engineering Division is serving as the project's general designer and general contractor.

Once Rooppur begins supplying electricity to the national grid, Bangladesh will become the world's 33rd nuclear power-producing country, marking a significant step in diversifying its energy mix and strengthening long-term energy security. �"BSS