METI joins force with EGAT and three leading Japanese companies to kick off feasibility study on clean hydrogen and ammonia production in EGAT’s potential sites
28 November 2023METI has funded EGAT and Japanese companies: CYD, MOL, and MCT in conducting the “Feasibility Study of Clean Hydrogen Value Chain” in EGAT’s potential sites to enhance the stability of power generation from clean energy sources, drive and elevate infrastructure, reduce CO2 emissions, and move toward a green energy future.
On November 27, 2023, H.E. Mr. Kazuya Nashida, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Thailand; Mr. Prasert Sinsukprasert, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Energy; Mr. Wattanapong Kurovat, Director General of Energy Policy and Planning Office; Dr. Jiraporn Sirikum, Deputy Governor – Power Business and Acting Governor of EGAT; Mr. Yasuhiro Inoue, General Manager on Hydrogen Business Department of Chiyoda Corporation (CYD); Mr. Ryosuke Sugimoto, Chief Country Representative in Thailand of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Limited (MOL); and Mr. Hiroyasu Sato, President of Mitsubishi Company (Thailand) Limited, attended the Ceremony of Commencement of the “Feasibility Study of Clean Hydrogen Value Chain,” held at EGAT Headquarters in Nonthaburi. This project is carried out under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between EGAT and three Japanses companies, supported by the grant of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) for studying and developing infrastructure abroad. There was also the kick-off meeting on the collaboration to expand business opportunities both in Thailand and internationally, covering the entire value chain, from production, transportation, storage, and cost estimation of clean hydrogen and ammonia.
H.E. Mr. Kazuya Nashida, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Thailand, stated that the Japanese government considers the hydrogen market as a potential new industry with the capacity to generate global income and employment opportunities. Additionally, it is a crucial key to achieving the goal of Carbon Neutrality by 2050. This collaboration aligns with the clean energy transition strategies of both the Japanese and Thai governments. The Japanese government expects to invest over 150 million Yen in researching and exploring the commercial potential of hydrogen energy. The collaboration between the two countries will accelerate the development of the hydrogen value chain, not only in the ASEAN region but also globally in the coming decades.
Mr. Prasert Sinsukprasert, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Energy, said that as a member of the global community and the ASEAN community, Thailand is committed to moving toward the Carbon Neutrality. The Ministry of Energy is promoting initiatives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the energy sector. This feasibility study on the clean hydrogen value chain by EGAT, supported by METI and expected to be completed by 2024, will play a significant role in driving the hydrogen development plan. Not only will this contribute to the achievement of carbon dioxide emissions reduction, but it will also stimulate economic growth and foster energy flexibility, leading to mutual long-term benefits.
Dr. Jiraporn Sirikum, Deputy Governor – Power Business and Acting Governor of EGAT, revealed that as the leading enterprise responsible for the energy security of Thailand and a pioneer in the development of the country’s renewable energy projects, EGAT has applied the clean and eco-friendly hydrogen as a fuel for electricity generation. This collaboration will enhance the development of clean hydrogen and ammonia production technologies as well as introduce a new dimension to elevate the standards of energy infrastructure. It aligns with the need for clean energy and supports EGAT’s Carbon Neutrality goal. The grant will advance the energy infrastructure in potential areas to support EGAT’s growth with Japan’s knowledge and technologies, aiming to create sustainable energy strength for driving the economic development of Thailand.
