BAERA clears commissioning of first unit; fuel loading ceremony expected late April
Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) has officially granted the commissioning license for fuel loading at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP).
The milestone means the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission is now fully prepared to begin fuel loading for the plant’s debut unit.
BAERA Chairman Mahmudul Hasan formally handed over the license to Dr M Moinul Islam, chairman of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission.
Quoting the high officials of the ministry, its Public Relations Officer, Md Tanveer Mia, said project authorities had successfully completed all technical tests and preparatory activities, evaluated against national regulations and international standards to ensure maximum safety.
The formal fuel loading ceremony is expected in the last week of April, though the exact date will be confirmed soon.
Fuel loading marks a critical phase in commissioning a nuclear power plant. Once completed, step-by-step tests will prepare the reactor for power generation, said Dr. Jahedul Hasan, managing director of NPCBL.
Within three months of fuel loading, electricity from the first unit will be added to the national grid, with full-scale transmission targeted by December 2026.
Earlier, on April 7, the schedule faced a brief delay due to minor issues in the fire extinguishing system. After inspections and updated safety measures, the regulatory body proceeded with licensing.
Dr Zahidul told The Daily Star that all preparations have been made with a primary focus on foolproof security and safety.
Source: The Daily Star