Dhaka: Bangladesh has taken a major step towards nuclear energy generation, with fuel loading beginning at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant on Tuesday. The milestone marks the country’s entry into nuclear power production.
The fuel has been loaded into the first unit’s VVER-1200 reactor, an advanced Generation III+ pressurised water reactor developed by Rosatom. The plant, located about 160 km from the capital Dhaka, has a total planned capacity of 2.4 GW across two units.
Officials said the project is expected to supply 10–12% of Bangladesh’s electricity needs once fully operational. The first unit is likely to be formally handed over for operation before the end of 2026.
Science and technology minister Fakir Mahbub Anam said the project would strengthen energy security, support industrial growth and help build a technology-driven economy. The plant, estimated to cost around $13 billion, is largely financed through a Russian state loan covering about 90% of the expenses.
Fuel loading marks the initial stage of commissioning. The reactor will next be brought to a controlled power level, with electricity generation expected to begin at low levels before gradually scaling up. Full-capacity output is projected around 2027.
The VVER-1200 technology is also being considered for future nuclear expansion in India, including additional units at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, where earlier VVER-1000 reactors are already in operation.
