The International Chamber of Commerce recommends Thailand establish small modular nuclear power plants to support data center operations and reduce electricity costs. The chamber chairman, Montri Mahaplerkpong, emphasized the need to revise Thailand’s energy structure to lower electricity prices and promote the country as a data center hub in ASEAN.
Montri highlighted the expected tripling of electricity consumption due to data center operations, noting that high electricity prices undermine investor confidence. Small modular nuclear reactors are proposed as a solution, offering higher safety and requiring minimal infrastructure for construction. A single plant could supply electricity to an entire province.
Collaboration between government and private agencies is suggested for setting up nuclear plants. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand could partner with several private companies, similar to mobile operators’ marketing collaborations.
Montri pointed out that Vietnam plans to establish nuclear plants to address blackouts and reduce electricity prices. He urged Thailand to expedite studies on nuclear power, given its six decades of experience with the technology. He also noted that constructing a nuclear plant is not more expensive than building a dam, and could reduce electricity prices.
He identified industrial provinces like Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan as potential candidates for nuclear power plants, given their high factory concentrations.
(Source: The Nation)
