The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is expanding its renewable energy portfolio with its third floating solar project, set to be installed on the Srinagarind Dam reservoir. This project aligns with EGAT's broader strategy to increase its solar energy capacity and integrate innovative renewable energy technologies into Thailand's power generation infrastructure.
Third Floating Solar Project on Srinagarind Dam
The Srinagarind Dam floating solar project is poised to generate 140 megawatts (MW) of power, making it EGAT's third such project. Previously, EGAT commissioned a 44 MW floating solar power plant at Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani and another at Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen.
EGAT's floating solar project on Srinagarind Dam, advancing Thailand’s renewable energy capabilities.
The Srinagarind Dam project aims to create a hybrid power production model by combining hydropower with solar power, enhancing overall system reliability. Hydroelectric plants in Thailand typically operate during off-peak hours, supporting agricultural activities. By integrating floating solar panels, the project aims to further stabilize and optimize energy production, benefiting both the energy sector and agriculture at a national level.
Thailand Initiatives and Long-term Goals
This project aligns with Thailand's revised National Power Development Plan 2024-37, which aims to achieve 20 gigawatts of renewable energy generation by 2037. As part of this broader government initiative, Thailand plans to install 2,725 MW of floating solar power, with EGAT and private contractors contributing to this ambitious goal. This program is focused on building a sustainable renewable energy fleet.
The auction for the Srinagarind Dam floating solar project will open on July 3rd, with construction expected to begin by 2026. While EGAT has not disclosed the specific development costs, given the scale and significance of the project, it is anticipated to attract significant interest from engineering, procurement, and construction firms.
Renewable Floating Solar Energy Expansion
Floating solar power is emerging as a promising and innovative solution to expand renewable energy capacity, captivating the interest of investors worldwide. Unlike traditional ground-mounted solar panels, which necessitate substantial land areas, floating solar installations can be deployed on various water bodies, including reservoirs, lakes, and even the ocean. This approach offers several key advantages.
A significant advantage of floating solar projects is their ability to preserve valuable land resources. By installing solar panels on water bodies, land can be utilized for other critical purposes such as agriculture, housing, and industrial development. Additionally, floating solar panels experience less heat buildup due to the cooling effect of water, leading to improved efficiency and higher energy output.
The World Bank highlights that floating solar systems can boost energy output by up to 10% compared to ground-mounted systems. By covering water bodies with solar panels, water evaporation can be significantly reduced, making this technology particularly valuable in water-scarce regions.
Floating solar systems leverage existing water bodies, minimizing the environmental impact associated with land clearing and ecosystem disruption. In addition to reducing water evaporation, these installations contribute to a cleaner energy future by displacing fossil fuel-based power generation and lowering carbon emissions.
Thailand's Renewable Energy Roadmap
In line with Southeast Asia's shift toward renewable energy, Thailand is set to strengthen its regional leadership position with the world's third-largest hydroelectric plant. The country's strategic vision is detailed in its government-backed National Power Development Plan (PDP) for 2024-2037, which outlines specific targets and strategies for Thailand's emerging green energy initiatives.
Thailand aims to achieve a net renewable energy capacity of 20 gigawatts (GW) by 2037, encompassing solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower. A key component of this goal involves adding 2,725 MW of floating solar power on reservoirs by 2037, leveraging Thailand's abundant water resources.
In 2023, Thailand’s total renewable energy capacity was just over 10GW; solar had an approximate share of almost 3GW. EGAT is increasingly leading the way in this process by pushing the envelope on new technologies. EGAT’s first floating solar project, on a retaining pond for its Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani, produced 44 megawatts of power. It has pointed the direction for further floating solar projects.
The 24 MW floating solar plant at Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen is another significant milestone in Thailand's renewable energy journey, demonstrating the viability of this technology. EGAT's latest announcement of a 140 MW floating solar project on the Srinagarind Dam reservoir is a testament to its commitment to renewable energy and will contribute to Thailand's progress towards its renewable energy goals. This project is expected to be operational by 2026.
Thailand's ambitious renewable energy roadmap showcases the country's dedication to sustainable development. By embracing innovative solutions like floating solar power, Thailand is not only enhancing its energy security but also inspiring other nations to adopt green practices and build more sustainable societies.