Economy
Thailand and U.S. Partner on Small Modular Reactor Feasibility Study
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has signed an agreement with the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to study the feasibility of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology.
On September 14, 2026, at the Gastech 2026 event held at BITEC in Bangkok, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) signed a grant agreement to conduct a preliminary feasibility study for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) power plants in Thailand. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Thailand’s Minister of Energy, Ekniti Prompan, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy James Danly, and U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Sean K. O’Neill.
According to Khaosod Online, this initiative is part of a broader U.S. effort to promote advanced nuclear technology and peaceful energy innovation. For residents and travelers, this development marks a significant step in Thailand’s long-term energy policy, potentially signaling a shift toward nuclear power as a future component of the national grid.
However, it is important to note that this agreement is strictly limited to a preliminary feasibility study. There is no current timeline for the construction or implementation of nuclear power plants in the country. The project remains in the research phase, and further government approvals, public consultations, and environmental assessments would be required before any concrete changes to the national energy infrastructure could occur. Residents should monitor official government announcements for future updates regarding the country's energy strategy.
