Bangkok: The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is progressing with plans to bolster renewable energy development. For 57 years, EGAT has maintained energy security and accelerated investments to support Thailand's clean energy promotion plan, aiming to overcome the global energy crisis, reduce reliance on imported fuels, and modernize the power grid for long-term national competitiveness.
According to Thai News Agency, EGAT Governor Mr. Narind Paovanich announced that EGAT is advancing floating solar power projects at Bhumibol Dam in Tak Province, Srinakarin Dam, and Vajiralongkorn Dam in Kanchanaburi Province, with a combined capacity of 1,638 megawatts. These projects are pending Cabinet approval and are part of a broader initiative to modernize the grid, increase power system resilience, and support the growing share of renewable energy, aligning with government policies to promote domestic energy and mitigate impacts from Middle East tensions.
EGAT is enhancing the Renewable Energy Forecast Center by integrating forecasting models to improve accuracy for solar and wind power plants. Additionally, the development of large-scale energy storage systems, such as pumped-storage hydropower plants, is underway. The Chulabhorn Dam facility in Chaiyaphum province awaits Cabinet approval, while Vajiralongkorn Dam's facility is preparing for a second public hearing.
The power transmission system is being upgraded to accommodate renewable energy and support digital industry expansion within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Projects like the Phan Thong High Voltage Substation, Sattahip 1 and 2 Substations in Chonburi Province, and Rayong 2 Substation in Rayong Province are slated for completion by 2026.
EGAT is also pursuing sustainable low-carbon energy sources such as hydrogen, ammonia, and carbon capture technologies to identify suitable options for combined cycle power plants (CCMP) and SMR plants. These initiatives aim to ensure power system security, clean energy sustainability, and cost competitiveness, while exploring new clean energy sources like biomethane (E-methane).
Regionally, EGAT has strengthened energy cooperation with Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, doubling the electricity trading volume of the LTMS-PIP Phase 2 project to 200 megawatts, further advancing the ASEAN Power Grid.
On EGAT's 57th anniversary, Mr. Paovanich reiterated the organization's commitment to providing electricity security for Thailand amid Middle East energy volatility and global economic challenges. Emphasizing the importance of clean energy production, reduced fuel imports, and diversified energy sources, he highlighted the need for sustainable growth and competitiveness.
EGAT is also focused on sustainability through a Circular Economy approach, developing by-products from the Mae Moh power plant for alternative uses, and collaborating on community projects with the Chaipattana Foundation and Utokapat Foundation under Royal Patronage. These efforts align with His Majesty's development principles and the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy to enhance community quality of life.