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Thailand Prepares for Nuclear Power as Clean Energy Plan Faces Delays

Thailand is taking steps to prepare for the adoption of nuclear power technology as part of its Power Development Plan (PDP) for 2024–2037. The plan, which includes the introduction of small modular reactors (SMRs), is currently delayed due to disagreements among energy experts and concerns raised during a public hearing.

SMRs, defined by the International Atomic Energy Agency as reactors with a capacity of up to 300 megawatts per unit, are being considered to diversify Thailand’s energy mix and reduce its carbon footprint. Under the PDP, two SMRs with a combined capacity of 600MW are planned to commence operations toward the end of the plan’s timeline. However, their development hinges on collaboration between the Energy Regulatory Commission and the Office of Atoms for Peace, which are tasked with addressing nuclear safety, energy security, and grid system management.

According to an announcement in the Royal Gazette, the Office of Atoms for Peace will handle nuclear safety issues, while the Energy Regulatory Commission will focus on energy management and infrastructure. Discussions between the two agencies are ongoing, and their progress will determine the feasibility of advancing the SMR initiative.

An energy official, speaking anonymously, noted that the government is unlikely to push forward with the SMR project until there is greater clarity on its direction and alignment with national energy policies. Policymakers are expected to make the final decision on the adoption of nuclear power.

The PDP also emphasizes a shift towards clean energy, aiming to increase renewable energy’s share of total fuel use to 51% by 2037, compared to 20% at the end of 2023. Simultaneously, reliance on coal and gas is set to drop from nearly 80% to 48%. The remaining 1% will come from nuclear and new energy solutions. However, critics argue the renewable energy target is insufficient for the government’s carbon reduction goals, and the projected long-term power demand is excessively high, posing financial challenges.

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