The first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) began power start-up operations on Friday, with the electricity generated currently being used for the plant's internal activities.

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

He said BAERA granted permission for the start-up on Thursday, following which the plant authorities began tests for power generation.

“We seek everyone's prayers for the successful commencement of electricity generation at the plant,” he said.

Hasan said the electricity generated is currently being used for internal operations, while turbine checks are underway.

“We are currently conducting turbine checks, which will continue. Once power generation reaches 300 megawatts (MW), another inspection will be carried out. If everything is found satisfactory, permission will be granted to supply electricity to the national grid,” he said.

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

The project is expected to reach the next stage of trial power supply to the grid within 15 to 20 days, according to project details.

Meanwhile, Russian state nuclear corporation 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 proceeding to trial commercial operations, the unit will have to undergo further power-ascension tests and secure the necessary regulatory approvals, Rosatom said.

The development marks a major step in Bangladesh's efforts to diversify its energy mix and establish a more stable long-term electricity supply.

Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant, Rooppur comprises 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.