Bangladesh Aims for 7,000 MW Nuclear Capacity by 2041

Bangladesh heavily relies on fossil fuels for its energy mix, with natural gas being the dominant source, contributing to 62.9% of the country's electricity generation. Oil and diesel also play a significant role, accounting for approximately 10% of electricity production, while coal contributes about 5%. Renewable sources make up around 3.3% of the electricity generation. Currently, almost 95% of the population in Bangladesh has access to electricity. The country's pursuit of incorporating nuclear energy into its energy mix is gaining recognition, especially in light of projections indicating a surge in electricity demand to 40,000 MW by 2030 and a further escalation to 60,000 MW by 2041. The Power System Master Plan (PSMP) 2016 outlines a comprehensive strategy, setting electricity generation capacity targets of 40,000 MW for 2030 and 60,000 MW for 2041. The plan also envisions a nuclear capacity of around 7,000 MW by 2041.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant

In 2011, Bangladesh and Russia's Nuclear Energy Corporation (ROSATOM) signed an inter-governmental agreement to construct two 1200 MW nuclear power reactors in Ishwardi, Pabna. The construction of the first unit began in November 2017, targeting commissioning by 2024, while the second unit started in July 2028, with a commissioning goal set for either 2024 or 2025. This initiative marked Bangladesh's initiation into nuclear power to address its burgeoning economic and energy needs. The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) by ROSATOM is on the brink of operational readiness. Bangladesh received its inaugural shipment of uranium fuel from Russia in October 2023, propelling it to become the 33rd nation globally to generate nuclear power.

The total project expenditure amounts to $12.65 billion, predominantly financed through a loan from Russia. This loan encompasses 90% of the project cost, totaling $11.385 billion, repayable over 28 years with a 10-year grace period. The remaining 10% of the project expense is covered by the Bangladesh government. An estimate by the economic relations division under the finance ministry suggests that Bangladesh would incur up to $8 billion in interest against the Russian credit of $11.385 billion for the primary construction of the power plant. The repayment of the $11.385 billion Russian credit, along with interest, will be executed in 40 equal installments commencing from March, providing Bangladesh with a 30-year repayment term and a 10-year grace period. The country's sole investment in the power project is anticipated to be $1.32 billion over the implementation period spanning two phases.

The Regulatory Framework

Bangladesh has established a robust regulatory framework to ensure the safe production of nuclear energy. The current legislative and regulatory system in the country prioritizes the health, safety, security, and environmental protection concerning the use of nuclear materials and facilities. Bangladesh actively participates in key international agreements on nuclear security, disarmament, and non-proliferation.

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC), established in 1973, is the key agency overseeing the safety and security of nuclear energy. Its primary focus is promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy and facilitating the construction of NPPs to address the country's power needs. As the sole beneficiary owner of NPPs, BAEC also manages the Nuclear Power Company of Bangladesh Ltd. (NPCBL) and operates as a Technical Support Organization (TSO). NPCBL ensures nuclear and radiation safety in NPPs, following International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines, and oversees their safe operation and maintenance, meeting national and international obligations.

Bangladesh's nuclear power regulatory framework includes the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Control (NSRC) Act, 1993 (now replaced by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Authority Act (BAEA), 2012), NSRC Rules 1997, and the Nuclear Power Plant Act 2015. Both BAEA-2012 and NSRC-97 require licenses for anyone handling radioactive materials or ionizing radiation sources. NSRC Rule 1997 outlines the licensee's responsibility for emergency preparedness and response.

The BAEA, 2012 is the comprehensive law governing nuclear plant safety and radioactive waste management. This Act established the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) in 2013, dedicated to formulating safety rules for nuclear energy use. BAERA oversees aspects like licensing, material import/export, waste safety, radiation protection, and emergency response. It ensures compliance with international obligations. BAERA granted the Rooppur NPP its site, design, and construction licenses in 2017. The Nuclear Power Plant Act 2015 defines the roles of the NPCBL, authorizing it to manage Rooppur NPP and other nuclear plants in the country.

The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) carried out a mission in Bangladesh from November 27 to December 8, 2022, with the primary goal of evaluating and reinforcing the regulatory framework essential for ensuring the safety of Bangladesh's nuclear power program. The IRRS team provided recommendations to strengthen the regulatory infrastructure for overseeing nuclear safety-related facilities and activities. Suggestions included establishing a national policy and strategy aligned with the IAEA fundamental safety objective, updating the legal framework (initiating the revision of Nuclear Safety and Radiation Control Rules), and developing a human resources plan for the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) to ensure a competent and certified workforce capable of effectively executing all functions.

Going for a Second Nuclear Power Plant 

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced plans for Bangladesh to construct its second NPP following the completion of the Rooppur NPP. The announcement came during an event commemorating the installation of reactor pressure vessels at the first unit of the Rooppur plant.

The government has identified eight potential sites for the second NPP, with the final selection pending a thorough feasibility study. Unlike the Rooppur plant, the second facility will utilize saline water for cooling. The southern region has been chosen for its abundant water and land resources. Discussions with Japan are underway for project implementation, while South Korea and China have also expressed interest.

Sheikh Hasina stressed the significance of establishing another nuclear plant in Bangladesh's southern region, highlighting its pivotal role in the country's development. The expansion of the nuclear power sector is poised to address energy supply challenges and foster regional development, ultimately elevating living standards for the populace.

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