Rooppur Nuclear Plant Unit-1 Receives Final Approval for Power Generation

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) has approved the start of power generation at Unit-1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. This step enables the facility to begin its first controlled nuclear reaction following a series of preparatory actions.

The final approval was granted by BAERA on 8 October 2026, marking a key milestone for the Rooppur project. This authorization allows Unit-1 to initiate its first criticality, which is the controlled start of the nuclear reaction process.

Prior to this, the commissioning process experienced delays due to technical issues involving automatic pressure relief safety valves. These complications were addressed and resolved by a technical team from Russia, allowing the project to move forward.

Fuel loading at Unit-1, which is considered the physical startup phase, officially commenced on 28 April 2026. This activity was a necessary step before the unit could receive approval to begin power generation.

What the numbers show

• Final approval for Unit-1 was given on 8 October 2026.
• Fuel loading at Unit-1 started on 28 April 2026.
• The first nuclear fuel for Unit-2 arrived on 3 October 2026.

In addition to progress at Unit-1, preparations for Unit-2 are also underway. The first shipment of nuclear fuel for the second unit arrived on 3 October 2026, indicating ongoing development at the Rooppur site.

BAERA Chairman Mahmudul Hasan confirmed that, although Unit-1 has received final approval for power generation, two further regulatory approvals will be necessary before the generated electricity can be connected to Bangladesh’s national grid.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant’s advancement follows a sequence of technical and regulatory steps, with oversight from BAERA throughout the process. The resolution of earlier technical challenges enabled the project to reach this stage.

Further actions will be required before the plant can supply electricity to the grid, according to statements from BAERA. These steps are part of the standard regulatory process for commissioning nuclear power facilities in Bangladesh.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.