RNPP moves closer to power production
: First unit gets commissioning
license
: Fuel loading likely from end of April
After overcoming a series of challenges, the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) has finally received the commissioning licence required to proceed with fuel loading operations.
The licence was issued by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) following
observations and evaluations conducted by both national and international regulatory bodies.
On Thursday evening (April 16), BAERA Chairman Mahmudul Hasan formally handed over the commissioning licence for Unit 1, along with personnel authorisation, to Dr M. Moinul Islam, Chairman of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC). Officials have indicated that the inauguration of uranium fuel loading may take place by the end of April. If everything proceeds as planned, electricity generation from the plant is expected to begin in phases by December.
Senior officials from the Rooppur project and the Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL) were present at the handover ceremony.
BAERA Chairman Mahmudul Hasan told The New Nation that all necessary technical tests and preparatory activities had been completed prior to the issuance of the licence. He added that multiple stages of monitoring, evaluation, and review were carried out in accordance with both national and international standards. As these processes were found satisfactory, the commissioning licence for fuel loading was granted.
He further noted that although the ministry had initially planned the inauguration for April 7, certain critical issues required additional time for resolution.
“We are aware that delays in the project are causing losses for the country. At the same time, we are making sincere and strong efforts to ensure maximum safety.
Now the situation is favourable, and all stakeholders have agreed on proceeding with fuel loading,” he said. He also confirmed that NPCBL has been authorised as the operator, with 52 of its personnel granted individual licences.
Dr Zahedul Hasan, Managing Director of NPCBL, also confirmed the issuance of the fuel loading licence, operator authorisation, and personnel licences.
Speaking on Friday morning, he said fuel loading is a critical phase of the commissioning process, during which nuclear fuel is inserted into the reactor, followed by a series of tests leading up to electricity generation.
He described the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant as a landmark development for Bangladesh’s power sector, adding that the start of fuel loading in Unit 1 marks another significant milestone in the country’s progress towards nuclear energy generation.
According to him, key preparatory works have already been completed, including obtaining fire safety clearance (NOC). He added that, with priority given to safety, security and safeguards, preparations for physical start-up – including fuel loading – have now been finalised.
He expressed optimism that electricity generated from Rooppur would be supplied to the national grid in phases by December.
Under international safeguards and in line with requirements supervised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), obtaining a licence from the national regulatory authority is a mandatory prerequisite before fuel loading can begin.
