GPSC pitches new nuclear energy idea

Govt urged to boost public confidence

- APINIYA WIPATAYOTIN

PARIS: Nuclear energy can help align Thailand’s sustainable development goals with its commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2065, an expert says.

Currently, about 60% of Thailand’s electricity comes from natural gas, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

While renewable energy accounts for 20% of the nation’s total power generation, experts are highlighting the significant challenges which hinder its long-term sustainability, including unstable power generation and high investment costs.

Patti Tumnoonmakorn, vice president of public affairs at Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited (GPSC), said last week the company is exploring the use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to generate nuclear power and ensure long-term energy security.

Each SMR has a maximum capacity of 300MW(e), with one third of the output of conventional nuclear reactors, Mr Patti said.