Energy Cooperation Anchors Russia-Bangladesh Relations

Energy cooperation has always been the backbone of economic relations between Russia and Bangladesh.

- Alexander Khozin

Back in the 1970s, the Soviet Union provided financial and technical assistance in the construction of Ghorashal and Siddhirganj power plants, which was an important contribution to the revitalization of Bangladesh's economy after the Liberation War. The facilities are still operational and supply more than 1000 MW to the national grid. Historically, Russian contractors provided technical support and operational assistance and contributed to modernization efforts.

Nowadays, our energy cooperation is centered on the construction of Bangladesh's first nuclear energy facility - Rooppur nuclear power plant. This flagship development project is ran by "Rosatom" State Corporation and its engineering division ASE. The contractor utilizes the most advanced engineering solutions, following the most stringent safety standards and environmental requirements.

Once commissioned, the Rooppur NPP will contribute to the stability of national energy security, providing additional 2,400 MW to the grid. Nuclear power is low cost and environmentally friendly since NPPs produce nearly zero greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, it will create an entire hi-tech industry for the benefit of Bangladesh's agriculture, health sector, and engineering.

At the moment, the work is focused on commissioning of Unit No.1 of Rooppur NPP, which is at the final stage of readiness: final construction, startup and adjustment works, mandatory checks and inspections, as well as execution of authorization documents from regulatory authorities are underway.