Growing Interest in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Thailand
Thailand is witnessing a growing interest in the adoption of small modular reactors (SMRs), a promising nuclear power technology that could play a significant role in the country’s energy strategy. This interest comes amid corporate initiatives to secure stable power supplies and align with national goals to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Several key players, including Ratch Group—the power generation arm of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat)—Global Power Synergy Plc, a subsidiary of PTT Plc, and Saha Pathanapibul International Plc, are actively supporting the development of SMRs. These companies are seen as major advocates for the technology, driven by both economic and environmental motivations.
The push for SMRs aligns with the government’s broader vision to decrease carbon dioxide emissions from traditional fossil fuel-based power plants. Global Power Synergy recently announced it is conducting a feasibility study to explore the potential of SMRs, responding to increasing power demand and its commitment to decarbonization.
This momentum is expected to be further fueled by an upcoming seminar titled “A Global Dialogue on SMR Deployment,” scheduled for July 16 in Bangkok. Organized by Ratch and Saha Pathanapibul International, the event aims to provide insights into the global trend of SMR deployment and offer a platform for experts and enthusiasts to share perspectives.
Understanding Small Modular Reactors
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, an SMR is a type of nuclear power technology with a capacity of up to 300 megawatts per unit—roughly one-third of the generating capacity of larger, conventional nuclear reactors. Their smaller size allows for greater flexibility in deployment and potentially lower costs compared to traditional nuclear power plants.
One of the primary reasons for the renewed interest in SMRs is their enhanced safety features. Unlike traditional reactors, which rely on electricity-powered cooling systems, SMRs utilize natural circulation and gravity-driven systems to remove heat. This design makes them more resilient during power outages, reducing the risk of catastrophic failures.
Additionally, some SMR designs are being developed to use fuel derived from reprocessed spent nuclear fuel. This innovation could address long-standing concerns about nuclear waste management, making the technology more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Thailand’s Nuclear Ambitions
Thailand’s exploration of nuclear power is not new. In the 1970s, Egat was initially positioned to lead a nuclear power project, but the initiative was abandoned after the discovery of natural gas in the Gulf of Thailand in the early 1980s.
In 2010, nuclear energy was included in the Power Development Plan (PDP), with a proposed 2,000MW nuclear power project set to begin operations around 2020 or 2021. However, this plan was scrapped in 2011 following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in Japan.
Despite these past challenges, there is now renewed optimism about the future of nuclear energy in Thailand. The upcoming PDP, set to be implemented from 2024 to 2037, includes plans to develop two SMRs, each with a capacity of 300MW. These reactors are expected to be developed and operated by Egat.
Experts believe that SMRs could be a game-changer for Thailand’s energy landscape. Their smaller scale and advanced safety mechanisms make them more adaptable to local conditions while also addressing public concerns about nuclear risks.
Education and Awareness
Before the PDP is enforced, there is a strong emphasis on educating the public and stakeholders about the benefits and challenges of SMRs. A private sector electricity executive highlighted the importance of raising awareness, stating, “We want to educate people on SMRs before the power development plan is enforced.”
As Thailand moves forward with its energy transition, the role of SMRs will likely become more prominent. With support from key industry players and a focus on safety and sustainability, the country may be on the path to embracing a new era of clean and reliable nuclear energy.
