Despite the government’s accelerated development of several hydropower plants in the Northeast, it could not meet the rising electricity demand. EGAT was required to seek a new power source and construct an additional power plant to meet the demand sufficiently.

Chulabhorn Dam, formerly known as “Nam Phrom Dam,” was a power project under the Northeastern Hydropower Development Project. In 1970, the dam was constructed across the Phrom River in the Khun Phai Mountain Range in an area called “Phu Yuak,” Thung Phra Sub-district, Khon San District, Chaiyaphum Province. In October 1972, the construction was completed and the dam started its commercial operation.

The reservoir also 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 the Nam Phrom River and 20,800 rai along the Nam Chern River. Chulabhorn Dam is known as the “Thai Switzerland” as it is surrounded by beautiful scenery and has pleasantly cool weather all year round.      

On June 3, 1973, the opening of the dam and power plant was performed by Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great and Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana. The dam was named after Princess Chulabhorn.