Bangkok: The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is accelerating its investment in floating solar power projects to support Thailand’s ambitious transition to net-zero electricity, reaching the target 15 years ahead of schedule. Preparations are currently underway for tenders exceeding 1,500 megawatts, pending approval from the new Cabinet for construction, with the project expected to involve an investment surpassing 30 billion baht.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Warit Rattanachuen, Deputy Governor for Strategy of EGAT, stated that as Thailand aims for a Net Zero energy goal by 2050, EGAT is expediting several projects to support this plan. These initiatives must balance energy security, appropriate electricity rates, and environmental impacts by exploring various options such as transmission system improvements, increasing renewable energy sources to over 50%, and utilizing new technologies like SMR and hydrogen.
EGAT is preparing additional plans to accelerate carbon reduction projects, including the completion of floating solar power projects in various dams, with a total generating capacity of 2,725 megawatts by 2030. The bidding process is set to be expedited, and various projects will be submitted to the new Cabinet for immediate approval. This will facilitate faster completion and reduce carbon emissions.
Among the key projects are three floating solar power plant projects totaling 348 megawatts, initially scheduled for Cabinet approval in December 2025, but delayed due to the dissolution of Parliament. The Srinakharin Dam Project (140 megawatts) has completed the bidding process, while the Bhumibol Dam project (158 megawatts) is finalizing bidding results, and the Vajiralongkorn Dam project (50 megawatts) is reviewing bid documents.
Additionally, four floating solar power plant projects, totaling 1,200 megawatts, are in the approval process with relevant agencies reviewing them before submission to the Cabinet. These projects include Srinakharin Dam Projects 3 and 4, and Bhumibol Dam Projects 2 and 3.
The Cabinet has already approved a small-scale hydropower plant project at the end of irrigation dams, authorizing EGAT to proceed with the Lam Takhong Dam, Lam Pao Dam, Huai Mae Tho Dam, and Krasiew Dam hydropower projects, with a total installed capacity of 6.75 megawatts. The approved budget for these projects is 959.76 million baht, with Lam Pao Dam scheduled for commercial operation in 2026, and the Mae Huai Mae Tho Dam, Krasiew Dam, and Lam Takhong Dam in later years.
Reporters indicate that the floating solar project will cost approximately 20 million baht per megawatt. If the new Cabinet grants approval, EGAT’s investment will exceed 30 billion baht, stimulating the economy while concurrently reducing carbon emissions.