Bangladesh's first nuclear plant highlights emerging markets' energy shift

Bangladesh is preparing to bring its first nuclear power plant online, a step aimed at reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and improving long-term energy security, Bloomberg reported Saturday. The Russian-built Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, located on the banks of the Padma River, is expected to supply up to 15% of Bangladesh’s electricity once its two reactors are fully operational in 2028. The first reactor is scheduled to begin commercial operations in early 2027, followed by the second a year later. The $12.65 billion project has been delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the Iran conflict, while depreciation of the Bangladeshi taka increased costs in local currency terms. Officials say it will deliver reliable baseload power and reduce the need for additional large-scale generation, while Bangladesh evaluates smaller modular reactors and discusses supplier options including Rolls-Royce and Chinese manufacturers.