GPSC explores the groundbreaking SMR technology in response to a promotion of clean energy solution and decarbonisation in the industrial sector to achieve Net Zero goal. With collaboration with Denmark’s Seaborg Technologies, GPSC leads development feasibility study in Thailand, setting the technology to foster energy security with safety and sustainability.

Mr. Sirimet Leepagorn, Chief Operating Officer of Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited or GPSC, the innovative power flagship of PTT Group, revealed that the demand for clean energy with reliable delivery of both electricity and steam in Thailand is showing continuous growth. However, renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power face limitations, as they cannot produce steam, and electricity generation remains intermittent, dependent on weather conditions. Therefore, GPSC is accelerating the study and development of other types of clean energy innovations that can drive Thailand's industrial sector, maintaining its competitiveness in energy costs while reducing carbon emissions. This aligns with Thailand's goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065. Currently, GPSC is focusing on Small Modular Reactor or SMR technology Generation IV, which involves small-scale nuclear power plants designed as factory-built, modular units that can be transported and assembled on-site. GPSC is collaborating with Denmark's Seaborg Technologies to explore the pre-feasibility study and economic viability of developing such projects with the 4-year study plan (2024-2027).

In addition, Thailand records the national carbon dioxide emission, reaching 250 million tonnes, contributed by 37% of the electricity manufacturing provider sector, followed by 34% of the transportation sector, 24% of the industrial sector, and 5% of the other sector. Thailand aims to combat carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, focusing on the energy generation sector to decrease emissions from 100 million tonnes in 2019 to 41 million tonnes by the goal year 2050. Conversely, the industrial sector is projected to emit 42 million tonnes from the baseline year emissions; however, emissions have risen to about 50 million tonnes. The record presents the industrial sector challenges in achieving the decarbonisation goal due the shortage of thermal energy caused by the renewable energy (solar and wind) insecurity.

CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) introduced by the EU is currently highlighted. Tentative to take effect in 2026, the tariff policy is imposed to set prices for the carbon emitted products importing to Europe. As private sectors face the limitation to accessible renewable energy along with the energy insecurity headwinds, risks are emerging in its competitive capacity as well as increased trade tariffs. The SMR technology can be applied in various forms, such as hydrogen production, steam generation, and its use as a green energy source in carbon capture and storage (CCS) processes.

“The feasibility study in collaboration with experts from Seaborg helps GPSC to navigate SMR safety roadmap with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Nevertheless, the SMR feasibility study must be conducted in compliance with regulations set by the government and requires opinions from all relevant sectors in the country involving law, regulations, environmental impacts, and so forth to gain approval by all parties with focus on safety and economical values. The project is expected to complete by 2035 for its commercial SMR technology potential aboard.” concluded Mr. Sirimet.

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