Staff Reporter :
The successful commissioning of the main and auxiliary transformers at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) marks a significant milestone in the progress toward full operational readiness of Bangladesh’s first nuclear facility, located in Ishwardi, northern Bangladesh.
This development paves the way for the initial integration of the power station with the national electricity grid, according to a statement issued by Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation, on Saturday.
The main step-up transformers, now fully installed, are designed to convert the 24-kilovolt (kV) output generated by the turbine into 400 kV for efficient high-voltage transmission to the national grid. Each unit has a capacity of up to 1,599 megawatts-well above the plant’s designed output of 1,200 MW-providing both system reliability and additional capacity.
Rosatom noted that the installation of the transformers, each weighing around 400 tonnes per phase, required more than 150 kilometres of cabling, underscoring the scale and complexity of the operation.
Auxiliary transformers, which supply power to the internal systems of the reactor unit, have also been commissioned. These are capable of dual-mode operation, drawing electricity either from the external grid or directly from the turbine generator during active operation. This replaces the previously used standby transformers and signifies a critical step towards full operational capability.
“This achievement is the result of close coordination and commitment across all teams involved,” said Alexey Deriy, Vice President for Projects in Bangladesh at Atomstroyexport. “Despite various logistical and environmental challenges, the team has delivered outstanding results. This is an essential stage in ensuring the safe and reliable commissioning of the unit.”
The next phase of the commissioning process will involve a series of hot functional tests, including validation of the plant’s safety systems and operational modes. These tests will involve controlled steam release into the atmosphere, which may cause temporary noise but poses no risk to nearby communities, the statement clarified.
Rosatom reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest safety standards, ensuring that all commissioning and construction activities are carried out in accordance with international protocols and regulatory requirements.
The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is being developed with financial and technical support from the Russian Federation. The facility comprises two Generation III+ VVER-1200 reactors, each with a capacity of 1,200 MW. The Engineering Division of Rosatom State Corporation serves as the general contractor for the 2,400 MW project.
