Even though the government had accelerated the development of hydro power plant project in the Northeast by building several hydro power plants in some provinces, it cannot meet the rising demand for electricity. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has to search for new power source and build more power plants to meet the demand sufficiently.

Chulabhorn Dam which is formerly known as “Nam Phrom Dam” was a power project in the Northeastern Development Project. The dam was built across Phrom River on Khun Phai mountain range in the area called “Phu Yuak” in Thung Phra Sub-district, Khorn Sarn District, Chaiyaphum Province. The construction began in 1970 and was completed and supplied electricity to the system since October 1972.

The reservoir of the dam serves as an important freshwater fish breeding source in the Northeast. The dam provides irrigation for planting in the dry season for agricultural areas of about 50,300 rai along Nam Phrom River and 20,800 rai along Nam Chern River. Chulabhorn dam is known as “Thai Switzerland” as it is surrounded by beautiful scenery and has pleasantly cool climate all year round.                

The opening of the dam and power plant was performed on 3 June 1973 by Their Majesties King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn. The dam was given the name Chulabhorn after Princess Chulabhorn.