“Bangladesh is set to become the world’s 33rd country to generate electricity using nuclear energy,” said a spokesperson from the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission. This bold statement comes as the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant begins its fuel loading phase, a pivotal moment for the nation.
The Rooppur project is Bangladesh’s largest infrastructure initiative and aims to significantly bolster the country’s energy security. With a total generation capacity of 2,400 megawatts, it consists of two units, each capable of producing 1,200 megawatts. The plant is expected to supply around 300 megawatts to the national grid on a trial basis by August.
Historically, Bangladesh has faced challenges in meeting its growing energy demands. As the country prepares to harness nuclear energy, it positions itself as a player on the global stage—potentially improving its economic standing. The International Monetary Fund projects that by 2026, Bangladesh’s per capita GDP will surpass that of India.
However, this ambitious leap into nuclear energy comes with its own set of challenges. The tax-to-GDP ratio in Bangladesh has hovered near 7%, among the lowest in Asia, raising questions about funding for such large-scale projects. Additionally, discussions around implementing a targeted inheritance or net-wealth levy could potentially raise between $1.5-1.7 billion annually.
The political case for such tax reforms is complex—inheritance tax remains unpopular almost everywhere it exists. Still, Bangladesh now appears to be weighing such an option as it seeks sustainable revenue sources.
The Rooppur plant is projected to meet approximately 10-12 percent of Bangladesh’s electricity demand once fully operational. Full-scale commercial generation may take up to ten months after trial generation begins, leaving many to wonder about the immediate impacts on local and national economies.
