Mr. Thepparat Theppitak, Governor of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), participated in a panel discussion addressing energy adaptation strategies in response to the climate crisis. The event, titled Technology and Energy Innovations in Response to Climate Change and ERC’s Mission, marked the launch of the Young Change World Change initiative, aimed at fostering clean energy innovation and achieving Thailand’s Net Zero Emissions goal. The press conference was chaired by Mr. Pitak Janyapong, Commissioner of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and took place at the Charoen Engineering Building, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University.
The discussion featured prominent energy sector leaders, including Dr. Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, Secretary General of ERC, who outlined the commission’s mission in supporting Thailand’s energy transition. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Naebboon Hoonchareon from Chulalongkorn University’s Department of Electrical Engineering presented insights on the development of Smart City Platforms and their pilot implementation at the university. Prof. Dr. Pisut Painmanakul, EGAT Board Member and project leader, shared perspectives on the role of technological advancements in climate change adaptation and their implications for Thailand’s energy sector.
EGAT’s Comprehensive Approach to Energy Transition
During his address, Mr. Thepparat Theppitak emphasized the complexities of shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy, particularly the challenges posed by the intermittency of solar and wind power. To mitigate these issues, EGAT has implemented a Grid Modernization Plan to enhance Thailand’s energy security. The initiative focuses on upgrading power plants with flexible generation capabilities and modernizing the national transmission system to integrate renewable energy more effectively.
As part of its clean energy strategy, EGAT is actively developing Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). The VPP platform integrates renewable energy power plants with storage systems, enabling a stable electricity supply that functions similarly to baseload power plants. Additionally, EGAT has introduced the Renewable Energy Forecast Center (REFC) to improve energy generation planning. This initiative is complemented by the Demand Response Control Center (DRCC), which helps manage electricity demand fluctuations by incentivizing businesses to shift their energy consumption to off-peak hours, thereby improving overall grid stability.
Exploring Alternative Energy Solutions for a Sustainable Future
To further support Thailand’s clean energy transition, EGAT is actively researching alternative energy sources. The agency is exploring the use of hydrogen-blended natural gas for electricity generation and developing fuel cell technology to enhance efficiency in power production.
A significant part of EGAT’s research focuses on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), an advanced nuclear power technology designed with enhanced safety features. SMRs have a modular design that simplifies system operations, allowing for streamlined manufacturing and faster deployment. These reactors incorporate passive cooling technology, which ensures continued operation without the need for external power sources. Additionally, nuclear fuel is abundant and requires only a small volume for electricity generation, making SMRs a viable long-term energy solution. Since SMRs produce zero carbon emissions during operation, they are seen as a key technology in Thailand’s efforts to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
Beyond nuclear advancements, EGAT is also conducting research into nuclear fusion and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS). These technologies are expected to play a crucial role in achieving Thailand’s Net Zero Emissions target by enabling cleaner and more efficient energy production while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Young Change World Change Initiative: Encouraging Student-Led Clean Energy Innovations
The Young Change World Change initiative, organized by ERC, is designed to engage undergraduate students in developing innovative clean energy solutions. With funding from the Power Development Fund, the program is managed by Chula Unisearch and provides students with an opportunity to present their ideas on clean energy and environmental innovations.
Students are invited to submit their projects for evaluation between March 1 and May 31, 2025. The competition offers scholarship prizes totaling 1,000,000 baht, supporting the next generation of energy innovators and encouraging the development of solutions that contribute to Thailand’s sustainable energy future.
Thailand’s push toward renewable energy and grid modernization, as highlighted in this event, demonstrates the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy development and climate change adaptation. The ongoing collaboration between regulatory bodies, academic institutions, and industry leaders will be instrumental in shaping a cleaner, more resilient energy landscape for the future.
