Thailand Emergency Energy Storage Power Supply

Can Thailand use energy storage?

Although Thailand is a regional leader in renewable energy, its use of energy storage is nascent. EGAT undertook some studies on the potential for energy storage and is piloting three battery energy storage installations. One is located alongside a solar project in Mae Hong Son Province to improve power supply stability.

How many mw can a solar generator store in Thailand?

Their total combined storage capacity was 994 MW. Interestingly, this allowed generators to sign semi-firm power purchase agreements (PPAs) with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) with minimum availability guarantees. Many solar projects in Thailand have non-firm PPAs in place due to a lack of storage on site.

Why is battery storage a problem in Thailand?

This is partly due to a lack of clarity on how battery storage fits into existing electricity infrastructure. In 2022, the Thai government approved 24 BESS projects, all of which were located alongside solar operations. Their total combined storage capacity was 994 MW.

Does Thailand offer private sector participation in renewable electricity generation?

The Government of Thailand has opened access for private sector participation in the renewable electricity generation business through its programs for small and very small power producers.

Why do some solar projects in Thailand have non-firm PPAs?

Many solar projects in Thailand have non-firm PPAs in place due to a lack of storage on site. Arrangements, including BESS, reduce the strain on power grid infrastructure and allow for better planning. On the downside, these do not improve grid stability, nor do they provide power generators with more pathways to increase revenue.

How much power does Thailand produce?

As of May 2019, Thailand (including imports) had installed generation capacity of 42,835 MW, of which 14,566 MW (34%) was accounted for by EGAT power plants; 14,949 MW (35%) by independent power producers; 9,443 MW (22%) by small producers; and 3,878 MW (9%) by foreign producers of imported power. Energy Policy and Planning Office. 2019.