RNPP to go on experimental operations in Dec

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant will commence experimental operations in December this year, confirmed Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed.

Speaking to reporters at his office in the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday, Salehuddin, who also holds the portfolio of the Ministry of Science and Technology, said Bangladesh had initially requested Russia to commission the plant in November, but Russian authorities confirmed December as the revised timeline.

“The nuclear fuel has already arrived at the site,” he added. “A team from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently conducted an inspection and issued a set of recommendations. We are currently implementing those measures. The IAEA will return for a follow-up visit to grant final approval before operations begin.”

Salehuddin also noted that the per-unit electricity tariff for power generated by the Rooppur plant has not yet been finalised.

The 2,400-megawatt plant, being constructed with Russian assistance in Pabna’s Ishwardi Upazila, marks Bangladesh’s entry into nuclear energy and is a cornerstone of the country’s long-term energy security strategy.