Power start-up process at Rooppur Unit 1 gets clearance

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) has approved power start-up at Unit 1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, allowing the facility to begin a new phase of commissioning before supplying electricity to the national grid.

The approval was granted today (29 October) after the unit completed the B-2 phase physical tests and other required activities.

The unit will now enter Stage C, during which reactor power will be increased gradually to test the performance of major equipment and systems under operating conditions.

The tests will cover the reactor, primary and secondary systems, turbine-generator, electrical equipment, instrumentation and control systems, and safety and security systems. Engineers will assess whether the systems function properly and operate together safely as reactor power increases.

A key milestone will be synchronising the generator with the national grid to assess the plant's ability to supply electricity steadily.

Project officials said the tests would help establish the plant's safe, stable and reliable operation. Reactor power will be raised in stages, while engineers closely monitor the turbine controls, generator and associated electrical systems.

Despite the latest approval, several steps remain before Unit 1 can supply electricity to the grid. The unit must complete the required commissioning tests and meet the conditions set by the regulator.

Once the tests are completed satisfactorily and the necessary approvals are secured, Unit 1 can move towards the pilot operation phase.

Entry into Stage C, synchronisation with the national grid and commercial operation are separate milestones. The latest approval does not mean the plant has started generating electricity or supplying power to the grid.