GPSC leads Gen IV SMR feasibility study enhancing renewable power stability and distributing electricity and steam to the industrial sector to increase competitive capacity alongside sustainable economy to reach Net Zero Emissions goal.

Mr. Sirimet Leepagorn, President and Acting Chief Operating Officer of Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited or GPSC, the innovative power flagship of PTT Group announced that GPSC is undergoing the feasibility study of SMR (Small Modular Reactor) in response to domestic electricity demand with supply stability as well as to achieve decarbonization in aligning to PTT’s Net Zero Emissions. SMR is recognized as advanced, flexible technologies capable of generating power and steam with high reliability to provide the solid power stream in response to the dynamic industrial power demand, thereby boosting industrial competitiveness and contributing to sustainable economic development.  

The SMR technology study pursued under GPSC’s directive represents a next-generation renewable energy innovation powered by Generation IV (Gen IV) nuclear technology. This advanced solution aims to enhance the competitiveness of Thailand’s industrial sector by offering three key advantages: strengthened power generation stability, enhanced safety features, and environmental sustainability. Designed for small-scale power plants with a capacity of 100–300 MW per unit, SMRs feature a modular, factory-assembled design that enables faster construction timelines. This innovative approach ensures continuous and reliable distribution of electricity and steam to the industrial sector—addressing a key limitation of conventional renewable energy sources, which typically generate power intermittently. Most commercial nuclear reactors employ Low Enriched Uranium and incorporate Molten Salt Technology to minimize risks, supported by a Passive Safety System. This system relies on natural physical principles to automatically dissipate heat from the fuel core in the event of an emergency. However, the SMR feasibility study requires comprehensive analysis across several critical areas—including suitable manufacturing locations, specialized technologies, safety management and economic viability. GPSC is currently conducting an in depth study aligned with Thailand’s Power Development Plan (PDP) 2024, which outlines a capacity limit of 300 MW for such systems. The first phase of implementation is projected to begin by the end of 2037.

Mr. Sirimet added that Thailand remains committed to achieve Net Zero Emissions goal amid three Energy Dilemma headwinds including (1) Energy Security (2) Affordability:  ensuring power remains accessible and cost-effective for the public, and (3) Energy Sustainability: which requires zero carbon emissions. Therefore, relying solely on renewable energy is not yet a viable option. Currently, no existing power generation technology fully addresses solutions to all three aspects except for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which have the potential to lead us toward the goal of Net Zero Emissions.

GPSC is prompted to advance the SMR initiatives through strategic partnerships with global technology experts in the field. The ongoing development of public regulatory frameworks is expected to yield new opportunities for SMR deployment. GPSC is poised to become the first private enterprise in Thailand to pursue SMR development, following the pioneering efforts of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT).

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