The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) Project

Authors: Md. Saad Bin Yousuf, Aurkit Barua Aurko, Ahnaf Tahmid, Anika Nawal, Bornil Debnath, Md.Joni Babu, Srinjoy Biswas Aranya

Overview of the Roopppur Nuclear Power Plant

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) in Ishwardi Upazila of Pabna district marks a historic milestone as Bangladesh’s first nuclear power project. Developed with Russian assistance, this ambitious initiative shows the country’s goal to diversify its energy sources and meet the growing demand for electricity sustainably.

The power plant will significantly enhance energy security in Bangladesh by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and supporting the country’s industrial growth. It will also contribute to environmental goals by providing clean energy and lowering carbon emissions. Once operational, the RNPP is anticipated to play a crucial role in meeting the country’s energy needs and boosting economic development.

However, the project is not without challenges. Ensuring safety, managing nuclear waste, and developing local expertise are critical concerns. Public apprehensions about nuclear energy and the financial burden of the project also add to its complexity. Despite these issues, the RNPP represents a bold step forward in Bangladesh’s pursuit of sustainable energy, holding promise for the future if managed responsibly.

Historical Context: Early Plans (1960s)
The concept of a nuclear power station in Bangladesh was first mooted in the 1960s when the region was still known as East Pakistan. In 1963, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission identified Rooppur as a viable site for a nuclear project. Preliminary plans were developed, but there was no development owing to political and economic turmoil.
Post-Independence Revival (1970s–1980s):

After Bangladesh got independence in 1971, the proposal to build a nuclear power facility was reconsidered. The project was taken over by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC), which was created in 1973. Despite technical research and worldwide interest, progress was halted due to financial and infrastructure issues.

Global Cooperation and Feasibility Studies (1990s to 2000s):

In the 1990s, Bangladesh requested assistance from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for feasibility studies. The IAEA suggested nuclear power as a viable alternative for meeting the country’s energy requirements. Economic restrictions and a scarcity of skilled human resources continued to impede growth.

Development Timeline: Renewed Efforts and Russian Partnership (2010s)

In 2010, the Bangladeshi government signed a framework deal with Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear business, to construct the project. In 2011, an intergovernmental agreement was signed to provide technical and financial help. Russia committed to offer loans totaling up to 90% of the project’s cost (about $12.65 billion).

Construction Starts (2017):

Rosatom participated in the plant’s construction, which began formally on November 30, 2017.The RNPP consists of two VVER-1200 reactors (pressurized water reactors) with a combined capacity of 2,400 MW. The VVER-1200 is a third-generation nuclear reactor with more advanced safety measures, including passive safety systems.

Progress Milestones:

2021: The first reactor pressure vessel was successfully installed. 2023: Bangladesh receives the first shipment of nuclear fuel (uranium) for Unit-1, signaling the start of the country’s transition to nuclear power. The plant’s commissioning and electricity production are scheduled for 2024 for Unit 1 and 2025 for Unit 2.

Project Formalization and Financial Agreements

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) was formalized and financed through a series of agreements between Bangladesh and Russia, primarily led by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) and Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom.

The foundation for RNPP was laid in 2011, when Bangladesh and Russia signed an intergovernmental agreement for the construction of the nuclear plant. The construction contract for the plant was signed in 2015, valued at approximately $12.65 billion. This included design, construction, and initial operational assistance for the plant. Rosatom is providing two VVER-1200 pressurized water reactors, known for their modern safety and efficiency features, marking the first use of such reactors in Bangladesh.

Russia’s Contribution:

Russia is financing 90% of the project’s cost through a state credit agreement, amounting to approximately $11.385 billion. The loan is to be repaid over a 28-year period, with a 10-year grace period, and an annual interest rate of 1.75% plus LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate)​.

As per agreements, Rosatom is responsible for the design, construction, and operational support of the plant. Additionally, the uranium fuel required for the reactors will be supplied by Russia under a separate contract, and used fuel will be repatriated to Russia, ensuring efficient waste management.

Bangladesh’s Contribution:

Bangladesh is covering the remaining 10% of the project cost, amounting to $1.265 billion. The financing plan has been questioned due to its impact on Bangladesh’s foreign currency reserves, particularly given its reliance on Russian rubles for repayment. Additionally, recent geopolitical tensions, including sanctions on Russia, have prompted Bangladesh to explore alternative payment methods, such as using Chinese yuan.

Construction Details

The construction of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) began in earnest in 2017, with two pressurized water reactor (PWR) units of the VVER-1200 type. The first concrete for Unit 1 was poured in November 2017, and for Unit 2 in July 2018.

Site Selection and Preparation

  • The site at Rooppur, Pabna District, was chosen for its proximity to the Padma River, ensuring a reliable water supply for cooling purposes. Soil and seismic surveys were conducted to assess ground stability and earthquake resilience​.
  • Extensive site grading and soil improvement were carried out to prepare the foundation for heavy loads from reactor buildings and other structures.

Foundation and Structural Design

  1. Foundation Work:
    1. Given the massive load of the reactor units, deep foundations were employed, incorporating pile foundations and reinforced concrete mats.
    1. Groundwater control measures, such as dewatering systems, were implemented during excavation to maintain dry working conditions and prevent soil instability​.
  2. Reactor Buildings:
    1. The main reactor buildings are designed with double containment structures:
      1. Inner containment: Steel-lined, cylindrical pressure vessels to prevent radiation leaks.
      1. Outer containment: A thick concrete shell (up to 1.5m) to provide impact and radiation shielding​.
  3. Auxiliary Structures:
    1. Separate turbine halls, cooling towers, and waste storage facilities were constructed using precast and cast-in-situ reinforced concrete methods.
    1. Specialized waterproofing and anti-corrosion materials were used to protect structures exposed to water or chemicals.

 Materials and Techniques

  • High-strength concrete was used for critical components to withstand thermal and mechanical stresses.
  • Steel reinforcement bars with anti-corrosion coatings were employed to ensure long-term durability in a humid environment.
  • Modular construction techniques were applied for certain components, such as prefabricated sections of the reactor dome, to reduce construction time and improve precision.

Safety and Seismic Design

  • The design incorporates features to resist seismic forces, including base isolation and reinforced shear walls.
  • Specialized safety barriers, such as molten-core catchers and blast-resistant walls, are integrated into the construction to mitigate extreme scenarios​.

Construction Timeline

  • The project followed a phased construction approach:
    • 2017-2018: Foundation and initial structural work.
    • 2019-2023: Reactor dome assembly, containment structures, and auxiliary installations.
    • The plant’s Unit 1 is scheduled for operation in 2023, and Unit 2 in 2024.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) incorporates advanced technical and safety measures to ensure efficient energy production and safeguard against potential risks. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Technical Features

  1. Reactor Type:
    1. The RNPP uses VVER-1200 reactors, which are a modern third-generation design developed by Russia.
    1. These reactors are Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs), known for their stability, efficiency, and safety.
  2. Capacity:
    1. The plant consists of two reactors, each with a 1,200 MW capacity, providing a total output of 2,400 MW.
  3. Cooling System:
    1. A closed-loop cooling system is utilized, with water drawn from the nearby Padma River.
    1. This system minimizes the environmental impact by controlling water temperature discharge.
  4. Fuel Type:
    1. The plant uses enriched uranium-235 as nuclear fuel, provided by Rosatom under a long-term agreement.
  5. Control Systems:
    1. The reactors are equipped with modern digital Instrumentation and Control (I&C) systems for precise monitoring and operation.
    1. Automated systems ensure operational efficiency and real-time detection of anomalies.
  6. Construction Standards:
    1. The plant is built to withstand extreme environmental conditions, including earthquakes, floods, and cyclones, which are prevalent in Bangladesh.
    1. Reinforced containment structures prevent the release of radiation under severe conditions.

Safety Measures

The RNPP incorporates multi-layered defense-in-depth safety principles, as recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). These include:

  1. Passive Safety Systems:
    1. Passive safety systems operate without requiring human intervention or external power, ensuring reactor safety in emergencies.
    1. Examples include:
      1. Core Catcher: A device designed to contain melted nuclear fuel in case of a reactor core meltdown.
      1. Passive Heat Removal System: Dissipates heat from the reactor without relying on active cooling mechanisms.
  2. Double Containment:
    1. The reactors are housed within double containment structures to prevent the escape of radioactive materials.
    1. The inner layer contains the reactor, while the outer layer protects against external impacts.
  3. Seismic Resilience:
    1. The RNPP is built to withstand earthquakes of up to 8.0 on the Richter scale, ensuring structural integrity in seismic events.
  4. Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS):
    1. The ECCS automatically supplies coolant to the reactor core during loss-of-coolant accidents (LOCAs) to prevent overheating.
  5. Radiation Shielding:
    1. Thick layers of concrete and steel are used to shield workers and the environment from radiation exposure.
  6. Spent Fuel Management:
    1. Spent nuclear fuel is stored in specially designed cooling pools within the facility before being moved to a long-term storage solution or sent back to Russia under a fuel repatriation agreement.
  7. Fire Safety:
    1. Advanced fire detection and suppression systems are installed throughout the plant to mitigate fire risks.

Economic Implications

The government plans to produce 14% of power from nuclear sources in 2031. Nuclear power has a very high initial investment cost, with substantial technical complexity and significant technological, market, and regulatory risks. The total estimated cost of the Rooppur nuclear plant is $13.34 billion US dollars. Construction for the nuclear plant is funded largely by a loan provided by Russia, with an expected payback over 20 years. Still, nuclear power plants can supply a large amount of baseload electricity at a low operating cost.

 Cost of Energy of Bangladesh is 9.35 US cents/kWh or 7.94 BDT/kWh considering a 2400 MW capacity of Rooppur NPP.  which is on par with other countries. strongly suggests that nuclear power is a worthwhile option for electricity production in Bangladesh, considering energy security, diversifications of energy basket, zero carbon emission, and cost-competitiveness.

Environmental Impact & Sustainability

The natural energy resources of Bangladesh mainly gas, coal and hydro are decreasing very rapidly due to higher population growth. According to Petrobangla, it would not possible to supply gas to new power plant after 2011. Other fuel sources such as : coal, oil, water is also not feasible considering Bangladesh perspective.

Again renewable energy sources of Bangladesh like solar, windmill and traditional biomass could not be able to fulfill the huge power and energy shortage. In that situation nuclear power plant will be a good option for lowering Carbon emission and efficient land use.

Main risks for RNPP is high population density, Natural disasters and nuclear waste. Due to very high population density of Bangladesh, about 1,00,000 people living around the construction zone would have to be relocated in order to comply with the code . There is no risk of tsunami or floods in Rooppur, and proper construction measures were taken to withstand 7.5-9.5 magnitude earthquake

With proper planning and implementation, the risks of nuclear powerplants can be negated. And Bangladesh has started working to achieve that goal. Manpower has been trained, radiation safety bill has been passed.

Challenges and Concerns

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) in Bangladesh, an ambitious project aimed at addressing the country’s energy needs, has faced several challenges and concerns since its inception. These encompass geopolitical, financial, safety, and environmental issues.

  1. Geopolitical and Economic Challenges
    1. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war poses significant risks to the RNPP, as the project heavily depends on Russian funding, technology, and expertise. The sanctions on Russia could impact the transfer of funds and the supply chain, potentially delaying the project. Bangladesh has expressed concern over long-term economic partnerships with Russia if the geopolitical crisis escalates (Dialogue Earth, 2024).
    1. Critics label the project a potential “economic black hole” due to its $12.65 billion cost and concerns over its financial viability. While it offers long-term benefits, there is uncertainty about Bangladesh’s ability to manage debt repayments, which are set to begin in 2027 after a ten-year grace period (The Diplomat, 2024).
  2. Safety and Technological Concerns
    1. Although the plant complies with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards, nuclear energy has inherent risks. Historical incidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima amplify public skepticism. The RNPP incorporates modern safety measures, including a multilayered defense system, but concerns about disaster preparedness and local expertise remain (The Diplomat, 2024).
    1. Bangladesh lacks prior experience in nuclear energy management. Despite ongoing training programs for local technicians, transitioning operational responsibility from Russian experts could present challenges (IUBAT, 2024).
  3. Environmental and Social Concerns
    1. The plant’s location near the Padma River raises environmental questions, including potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems and nearby communities. Proper radioactive waste disposal is another critical issue. While Bangladesh has agreements with Russia for waste management, long-term sustainability and environmental safety are crucial (IUBAT, 2024).
    1. Displacement of local communities during construction and concerns about equitable access to energy generated by the plant further add to the social challenges.
  4. Corruption and Project Management
    1. Allegations of mismanagement and corruption have surfaced during project execution. Ensuring transparency in procurement and financial transactions is essential to mitigate inefficiencies and build public trust (The Diplomat, 2024).

In summary, while the RNPP has the potential to transform Bangladesh’s energy landscape, these challenges must be proactively addressed to ensure the project’s success and sustainability.

Future Aspects

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) is poised to significantly transform Bangladesh’s energy sector, presenting several promising prospects:

  1. Enhanced Energy Security

The RNPP, with its planned generation capacity of 2,400 MW across two units, will contribute substantially to Bangladesh’s energy grid. By generating around 19 billion kWh annually, it is expected to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuels and ensure a stable energy supply for the growing economy.

  • Economic Growth and Development

The project, valued at $12.65 billion, is anticipated to create thousands of jobs and stimulate local economies. Additionally, its cost-competitive electricity production (LCOE of $56.73 per MWh) will support industrial and economic growth, helping Bangladesh remain competitive in global markets​.

  • Sustainability and Environmental Benefit

Nuclear power’s minimal carbon emissions align with global efforts to combat climate change. RNPP’s operations will support Bangladesh’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing cleaner energy alternatives and contributing to environmental sustainability​.

  • Technological Advancements and Global Recognition

The RNPP employs advanced VVER-1200 reactors, showcasing Bangladesh’s leap into adopting high-tech energy solutions. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has recognized the project as a model for new nuclear entrants, enhancing Bangladesh’s standing in the global energy sector​.

  • Catalyst for Further Nuclear Development

Plans for a second nuclear power plant in the future, as announced by the government, indicate RNPP’s role as a foundational project. This forward-looking strategy reflects Bangladesh’s long-term commitment to nuclear energy as part of a diversified and sustainable energy mix​.

With the first unit expected to commence operations in 2024, RNPP is set to redefine Bangladesh’s energy landscape, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Community Impact

Electricity is available to 78% of the population of Bangladesh. RNPP will be a powerful engine of Bangladesh’s social and economic growth and a significant contributor to the country’s energy supply. It will promote the nation’s industrial sector expansion and contribute to its overall economic development. It will also create jobs for residents and generate government revenue, contributing to a healthy economy. The project will directly employed 14000 Bangladeshis and 3000 employs of foreign nationals also development of infrastructures centered on RNPP

Employment Opportunities

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) is poised to significantly impact employment in Bangladesh, particularly in the northern region. The project has already created substantial job opportunities during its construction phase and will continue to do so as it transitions into operation.

  1. Construction Phase Employment:

The RNPP employed thousands of workers in its construction, with roles spanning civil engineering, machinery installation, and supporting services. The inclusion of international and local expertise has also fostered skill transfer, preparing Bangladeshi workers for future nuclear projects.

  • Operational Jobs:

Once operational, the RNPP will require a variety of roles, including nuclear engineers, technicians, safety officers, and administrative staff. The plant’s maintenance and operational needs will ensure stable, long-term employment for skilled workers in the region.

  • Supporting Industries:

The RNPP is expected to catalyze the development of industries in its vicinity. Increased power availability will attract industries, creating indirect employment opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, and infrastructure development.

  • Training and Skill Development:

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC), with assistance from Rosatom, has implemented training programs for Bangladeshi personnel in nuclear technology and safety. These initiatives not only fulfill the plant’s staffing needs but also enhance the country’s human resource capabilities.

  • Economic Ripple Effects:

By attracting businesses to the region due to reliable power, the RNPP indirectly supports job creation in various sectors such as retail, hospitality, and transportation.

Infrastructure Improvement of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant

1. Power Transmission and Distribution Network

To integrate the RNPP’s 2,400 MW capacity into the national grid:

  • High-Voltage Transmission Lines:
  • Construction of 400 kV transmission lines connecting the RNPP to the national grid.
  • Key transmission routes include Rooppur to Dhaka and other major load centers.
  • Substations:
  • Installation of high-capacity grid substations near the RNPP and at strategic locations along the transmission network.
  • Advanced technologies like gas-insulated substations (GIS) are being used for reliability.

2. Transportation and Logistics

Efficient transportation and logistics systems are essential for delivering heavy machinery, nuclear fuel, and other critical materials:

  • Riverine Transport:
  • Utilization of the Padma River for the delivery of heavy equipment, including reactor components, which are transported from Russia.
  • Construction of specialized ports and jetties near the RNPP site for cargo handling.
  • Road Infrastructure:
  • Development of widened and reinforced road networks from major ports and cities to the RNPP to accommodate heavy machinery.
  • Bridge and culvert improvements to handle increased traffic.

3.Water Supply and Management

The RNPP requires significant water resources for cooling systems and operational processes:

  • Water Intake Systems:
  • Construction of an advanced water intake system to draw water from the Padma River for the cooling systems.
  • Wastewater Management:
  • Installation of treatment facilities to manage and treat wastewater before releasing it into the environment, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

4. Communication and Connectivity

Reliable communication systems are essential for efficient plant operation:

  • Fiber Optic Networks:
  • Deployment of high-speed fiber optic cables for secure communication between the plant and control centers.
  • Backup Communication Systems:
  • Establishment of redundant communication systems to ensure connectivity during emergencies.

References

Download Full Text