Bangkok: EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand) is undertaking an innovative initiative to revitalize expired electric vehicle (EV) batteries by converting them into energy storage systems. This comprehensive management system involves disassembling end-of-life batteries, reassembling them into energy storage systems, and recycling them into green batteries for reuse.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Warit Rattanachuen, Deputy Governor for Strategy of EGAT and acting as its spokesperson, led a group of journalists on a study tour of EGAT's research project on sustainable EV battery management. This project, a collaboration with the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), included visits to the NSTDA Electrical and Electronics Product Testing Center and the pilot plant at Wang Noi Power Plant in Ayutthaya province.
Mr. Warit Rattanachuen emphasized that EGAT is committed to driving Thailand's energy transition by promoting clean energy production and distribution. The rapid growth of EVs has highlighted the need for effective e-waste management, particularly for batteries classified as hazardous due to their composition. EGAT is collaborating with partners to ensure sustainable management of used batteries, integrating strategies to reduce environmental impact and support a circular economy.
EGAT's approach includes removing batteries from EVs, storing them securely, checking their electrical properties, and sorting them for reuse or recycling. This initiative not only reduces environmental impact but also creates added value from resources previously considered waste. The collaboration with NSTDA involves developing energy storage systems from expired batteries, while Thammasat University is exploring the recovery of valuable metals from worn-out batteries.
During the study visit, the delegation observed the process of sorting and screening used batteries at the NSTDA center. Batteries with a Solenoid Overhead (SOH) value greater than 70 percent are recycled into Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for the power system, while those below 70 percent are sent for recycling and mineral recovery. This process includes developing new green battery cells and represents a significant application of the Circular Economy.
EGAT is also studying the establishment of Circular Industrial Estates in collaboration with agencies like the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). This involves comprehensive management approaches for EV batteries, solar panels, and e-waste, promoting the circulation of valuable minerals within Thailand's economic system. EGAT, along with the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), is advancing policy studies to promote the circular economy of EV batteries and energy storage systems in Thailand.
EGAT highlights the urgent need for Thailand to implement a battery traceability system and require manufacturers or importers to oversee batteries throughout their lifecycle. This would help prevent negative environmental impacts and improve resource management in the country.