The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP), Bangladesh’s first nuclear energy project, is a cornerstone of the nation’s Vision 2041 for energy security. As of 2025, this $12.65 billion megaproject has reached critical construction milestones, bringing Bangladesh closer to joining the global nuclear energy community.
This in-depth report covers:
✔️ 2025 Construction Progress
✔️ Safety & Technology Features
✔️ Economic & Energy Impact
✔️ Challenges & Controversies
✔️ Future Timeline & Expectations
Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant: Key Facts
📍 Location: Ishwardi, Pabna
💡 Capacity: 2,400 MW (2 reactors × 1,200 MW each)
🤝 Technology Partner: Rosatom (Russia)
📅 Construction Start: 2017
📅 Expected Commissioning: 2025 (Unit 1), 2026 (Unit 2)
💰 Total Cost: $12.65 billion (90% Russian loan)
Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant Progress in 2025
1. Construction Milestones Achieved (2025 Update)
| Phase | Progress Status (2025) |
|---|---|
| Unit 1 Reactor Vessel Installation | Completed (2024) |
| Turbine & Generator Setup | 95% Done |
| Cooling System Testing | Ongoing |
| Unit 2 Structural Work | 80% Complete |
| Grid Connection Preparations | Started |
🔹 Latest Development (June 2025):
- First fuel delivery expected Q3 2025 from Russia.
- IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) conducted safety reviews.
2. Workforce & Local Impact
- 5,000+ workers employed (20% Bangladeshi engineers trained in Russia).
- New infrastructure: Roads, hospitals, and housing built near the site.
Technology & Safety Features
1. Reactor Type: VVER-1200 (Gen III+)
✔️ Enhanced safety (passive cooling, meltdown-proof design)
✔️ 60-year lifespan with possible 20-year extension
✔️ Less nuclear waste than older models
2. Safety Measures
- Double containment dome (tsunami/earthquake-resistant).
- AI-powered monitoring for radiation leaks.
- IAEA-approved emergency protocols.
Economic & Energy Benefits
1. Solving Bangladesh’s Power Crisis
- Will supply 10% of national electricity demand.
- Reduce reliance on costly fossil fuel imports.
2. Economic Growth
- $3 billion+ saved annually in fuel costs.
- High-tech job creation in nuclear engineering.
3. Environmental Impact
- Zero greenhouse gas emissions during operation.
- Helps meet Paris Agreement climate goals.
Challenges & Controversies
1. Cost Overruns & Debt Concerns
- Project cost rose from $12 billion to $12.65 billion.
- Repayment of Russian loan starts 2027 (30-year term).
2. Safety Concerns
- Earthquake risks (Bengal Basin is seismic zone).
- Public protests by anti-nuclear groups.
3. Geopolitical Dependencies
- Russia controls fuel supply & maintenance.
- US sanctions on Rosatom could complicate spare parts access.
Future Timeline (2025-2030)
| Year | Key Event |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Unit 1 fuel loading & test runs |
| 2026 | Unit 1 commercial operation; Unit 2 testing |
| 2027 | Full capacity (2,400 MW) online |
| 2030 | Local staff to manage 50% operations |
Conclusion: A New Era for Bangladesh’s Energy
The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant’s 2025 progress marks a historic leap toward clean, reliable energy independence. While cost and safety debates continue, successful commissioning could position Bangladesh as a South Asian leader in nuclear energy.
FAQs on Rooppur Nuclear Plant 2025
Q1. Is Rooppur safer than Chernobyl/Fukushima?
A: Yes—Gen III+ reactors have passive safety features.
Q2. How much will electricity cost from RNPP?
A: Estimated ৳4-5/kWh (cheaper than LNG-based power).
Q3. Can Bangladesh handle nuclear waste?
A: Russia will repatriate spent fuel until 2035; local storage planned.
Q4. What happens if Russia stops support?
A: IAEA contingency plans exist, but delays likely.
Q5. Will load-shedding reduce after RNPP?
A: Yes—2,400 MW will significantly stabilize the grid.