Electricity production has commenced on a trial basis at the RNPL 1320 MW thermal power plant in Patuakhali.
The first unit, with a capacity of 660 MW, began operations on Monday (20January) at 12:30am, initially supplying 110 MW to the national grid.
According to Chief Engineer Ashraf Uddin, the full capacity of the first unit will gradually be integrated into the grid.
Efforts are underway to expedite the launch of the second unit, also with a capacity of 660 MW, by March.
Managing Director Selim Bhuiya confirmed that the initiation of electricity production is expected to improve the country's power situation significantly.
The RNPL project, a joint venture between Chinese firm Norinco International and the state-owned Rural Power Company Limited, was implemented on 950 acres of land at a cost of Tk27,000 crore.
Construction began in August 2019.
Despite challenges, the power plant's operational debut has been met with enthusiasm by the officials and staff, who regard this project as a milestone in the nation’s power sector.
