Thailand Urged to Accelerate Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Readiness

During a seminar titled 'NEW ENERGY FOR THAILAND,' Professor Dr. Somboon Rassamee, head of the Department of Nuclear Engineering at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a flexible energy solution for the country. According to a report by Khaosod Online, Dr. Somboon emphasized that while large-scale nuclear power has been the traditional focus for decades, the global energy sector is shifting toward smaller, more adaptable modular designs.

SMRs, defined by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as reactors ranging from 50 to 470 megawatts, are noted for being factory-assembled and capable of providing industrial heat. Dr. Somboon urged Thai authorities to expedite the development of necessary infrastructure and human resources to integrate this technology within the next 10 years.

For residents and travelers, this discussion signals a potential long-term shift in Thailand’s national energy policy. While this development is currently in the academic and policy-discussion phase, it highlights the government's interest in diversifying energy sources to ensure future stability. It remains to be confirmed how the government will respond to these calls for legislative reform and whether specific sites or timelines for SMR implementation will be proposed in the near future.