Thailand is advancing its plans for nuclear power generation, marking its third attempt to integrate this energy source into its national strategy. The adoption of small modular reactors (SMRs) is central to this effort, offering a pathway to achieve cleaner energy, enhance grid reliability, and support climate goals. Under the latest Power Development Plan (PDP), Thailand aims to operationalize two SMRs, each with a capacity of 300 MW, by 2037. These reactors will be developed and operated by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT).
Historically, Thailand’s efforts to deploy nuclear energy were hindered by external and internal factors. A nuclear power project approved in the 1970s was abandoned after the discovery of natural gas in the Gulf of Thailand, which provided a cheaper and more accessible energy alternative. A second attempt in 2010 included a 2,000 MW nuclear plant in the PDP for operation by 2020–2021. However, global concerns following the Fukushima disaster in 2011 led to the project’s removal. With advancements in SMR technology and rising energy demands, this renewed push reflects a pragmatic approach to diversifying the country’s energy mix while addressing environmental imperatives.
Advantages of Small Modular Reactors
The shift toward SMR technology aligns with Thailand’s ambition to integrate sustainable and reliable energy sources. SMRs provide several benefits over traditional nuclear reactors, including smaller physical footprints, scalability, and enhanced safety features. Passive cooling systems, which require minimal external energy input, reduce the risk of overheating and operational failures. Additionally, SMRs are designed to use less uranium fuel while maintaining comparable energy output, contributing to cost efficiency and long-term sustainability.
To support the development of SMRs, Thailand is implementing complementary initiatives. EGAT is collaborating with Chulalongkorn University and international SMR developers to build a skilled workforce capable of managing nuclear technology. The Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) have jointly established a committee to draft nuclear safety regulations tailored to SMRs, ensuring compliance with international standards. The initial draft is expected by mid-2025, with public consultation to follow.
Public acceptance remains a critical factor. A recent survey conducted by the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT) found that 42% of respondents were open to nuclear power, up from 35% in 2023. However, 58% still expressed concerns regarding safety and waste management. The government has initiated educational campaigns in schools and broader public forums to address these issues, highlighting the enhanced safety of modern SMR designs and their role in reducing carbon emissions.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite its potential benefits, the integration of nuclear energy into Thailand’s energy strategy presents several challenges. Economic feasibility remains a key consideration, as the capital costs of SMRs, although lower than traditional reactors, are still substantial. The long-term cost-effectiveness of SMRs has not yet been fully demonstrated, making it crucial for Thailand to carefully assess financing mechanisms and deployment models.
Regulatory readiness is another critical area. Establishing a robust framework for nuclear safety, waste management, and environmental oversight requires close collaboration between government agencies, international partners, and technical experts. Recent efforts by the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) to conduct environmental impact assessments for potential SMR sites are a step in the right direction. The findings, expected by late 2025, will provide essential data for site selection and operational planning.
Emergency preparedness is an equally important consideration. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has begun integrating nuclear-specific protocols into the national disaster management framework. These measures include evacuation planning, radiation monitoring, and public communication strategies tailored to nuclear incidents. These actions aim to build public trust and demonstrate the government’s commitment to safety.
Additionally, nuclear waste management poses a long-term challenge. Developing storage and disposal solutions that meet global safety standards will require substantial investment and technological innovation. Collaborative efforts with international partners could provide valuable expertise in addressing these issues effectively.
Nuclear Energy in Thailand’s Broader Energy Transition
The inclusion of nuclear power in Thailand’s PDP reflects its role as a supplemental energy source within a broader transition strategy. By 2037, Thailand aims to reduce the share of coal and natural gas in its energy mix from 80% to 48% while increasing the share of renewables from 20% to 51%. Nuclear energy and other emerging technologies are projected to contribute 1% to the mix, providing reliable baseload power to complement intermittent renewable sources.
This strategy aligns with Thailand’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065. SMRs offer a low-carbon solution that can stabilize the grid and support industrial and residential energy demands. Furthermore, the government’s civil nuclear cooperation agreement with the United States underscores its intent to leverage international expertise. Starting in March 2025, Thai engineers and policymakers will participate in advanced SMR training programs in the U.S., enhancing domestic capabilities.
Domestic content development is another focus area. The Ministry of Industry, in collaboration with the Board of Investment (BOI), has introduced incentives to attract investments in nuclear-related industries. Plans to establish a Nuclear Technology Industrial Park by 2027 aim to support the local supply chain, reduce reliance on imports, and create high-value jobs in advanced manufacturing.
