Rooppur Unit 1 starts reactor tests, grid supply targeted by year-end

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Unit 1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant began the process of generating electricity at 12:03 PM on Friday, a day after receiving regulatory approval to enter Stage C, officials said.

The process started with an increase in pressure and temperature inside the reactor, marking the beginning of a series of operational tests, said Dr Md Zahedul Hasan, managing director of the Nuclear Power Plant Company of Bangladesh Ltd (NPCBL).

He said Unit 1 had been undergoing a systematic programme of operational testing covering the reactor, primary and secondary systems, turbine-generator, electrical systems, instrumentation and control, and protection and safety systems.

As reactor power is gradually increased, engineers will monitor and verify the performance of major plant systems under operating conditions. The tests will also assess the functioning of turbine control and protection systems, as well as the generator and its associated equipment.

During Stage C, reactor power will be progressively increased to produce steam, drive the turbine and generate electricity. The plant's output will be raised in stages, with the turbine's performance closely monitored throughout the process.

However, beginning the power generation process does not mean electricity is already being supplied to the national grid. Unit 1 must first complete a series of tests under Stage C before grid connection can begin. Officials hope to start supplying electricity by the end of this year.

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority granted approval on Thursday for Unit 1 to enter Stage C and begin the power generation process.

Located on the banks of the Padma River in Ishwardi upazila of Pabna, the $12.65 billion project was built with Russian financial and technical support. The plant has two VVER-1200 reactors and is designed to supply a combined 2,400 megawatts of electricity to the national grid once both units are fully operational.