Govt to review power grid security before nuclear launch

The government will scrutinise the existing electricity-transmission system before commissioning the country's lone nuclear power plant to avoid any disruption to power supply.

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmood on Monday directed the relevant authorities to undertake the review and prepare the grid for the introduction of nuclear power.

"Since nuclear power involves advanced technology, we must be properly prepared before production begins," he told reporters, explaining the rationale behind the move.

The state-owned Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) has been instructed to conduct the necessary studies and prepare a concept paper, he said.

The document will subsequently be reviewed by foreign consultants with experience in nuclear power systems.

"Based on their recommendations, the transmission and distribution systems will be upgraded before nuclear power comes online. We will make every effort to complete all preparations on time," Mr Mahmood said.

He issued the directives during a review meeting at the ministry's conference room, with the chairmen and managing directors of transmission and distribution-related organisations and companies operating under the Power Division of the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources (MPEMR).

The meeting reviewed the country's existing transmission and distribution capacity, system weaknesses, challenges associated with integrating smart-grid and nuclear power technologies, and the preparations required to address them.

"We have moved from gas-based power generation to a diversified energy mix that includes coal, oil, solar and now nuclear power. Unfortunately, during the previous Awami League government, no effective measures were taken to synchronise these systems," the minister alleged.

Without proper synchronisation, the power system could face serious operational risks, including potential grid failures, he warned.

"Nuclear power is very important for us. But since it is a highly advanced and complex technical system, comprehensive preparation and caution are essential. Public safety must be given the highest priority. That is our goal," he said. During the meeting, officials informed participants that primary and secondary frequency control mechanisms had already been introduced as part of the initial stage of preparedness.

The meeting identified several key challenges, including maintaining adequate spinning reserves through greater participation of power plants, implementing smart-grid technologies, strengthening distribution systems, introducing a Distribution Management System (DMS), and managing demand fluctuations caused by distribution line outages or weather-related disruptions.

azizjst@yahoo.com