Fuel loading has begun at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP), marking a major milestone as Bangladesh moves closer to entering the nuclear power generation phase at its first-ever nuclear facility.
The uranium fuel loading process started after 3:30pm today at the reactor of Unit-1 in Ishurdi upazila of Pabna. Officials said the process will take around 21 to 30 days to complete, after which the country will formally enter the nuclear power generation era.
Former project director Dr Shuwkat Akbor said, “Authorities have begun loading uranium into the reactor of the first unit. The fuel loading process will take around 21 to 34 days, and with this, the production process of the power plant has begun.”
A technical expert at the site said initial electricity generation will begin at around one percent capacity and gradually increase up to 30 percent, with an expected initial output of 300 megawatts. The electricity is likely to be supplied to the national grid between late July and early August.
Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Information Technology and Science and Technology Fakir Mahbub Anan said all activities are being carried out in line with international standards.
“Safety is the first priority of Bangladesh. This nuclear power plant will further advance the historic relations between Dhaka and Moscow,” he said while inaugurating the “Physical Start-Up of Unit-1” at the project site.
He added that commercial production of 300 MW from the first unit is expected by the end of July or early August, while full-scale production may begin by December this year or early 2027.
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad termed the day a significant milestone, saying Bangladesh has taken a major step forward in technology development.
Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev said the project marks Bangladesh’s entry into peaceful nuclear energy use and strengthens international cooperation in the sector. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi also sent a video message welcoming the development.
The Rooppur plant, built with Russian assistance under Rosatom’s VVER-1200 III+ reactor technology, has a total capacity of 2,400 MW across two units. The project cost is estimated at $12.65 billion.
Once fully operational, the plant is expected to have a lifespan of up to 100 years through phased extensions. Unit-1 construction is now complete, while Unit-2 remains under construction and is expected to be finished next year.
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