Kaeng Krachan Dam

(Phetchaburi Province)

Background

When we mention Phetchaburi Province, we think of several tourist attractions but there is another important construction, it is “Kaeng Krachan Dam.”

Being the first earth dam of the country, Kaeng Krachan Dam was built across Phetchaburi River at the area of Khao Mai Ruak and Khao Chao. Apart from electricity generation, the dam has contributed to the expansion of more irrigation areas for cultivation. It has eliminated the problem of scarcity of water for consumption in the area of Phetchaburi-Hua Hin estuary and flood problems in Phetchaburi Province.

The construction of the dam started in 1961 and was completed in 1966. The opening of the dam was inaugurated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great on May 22, 1966.

Since then, EGAT constructed the power plant in November 1971 and the power plant was completed and supplied electricity to the system in August 1974.

As Phetchaburi Province has many tourist attractions, the demand for electricity has increased as well, thus, EGAT has improved the new power plant in November 2008. The new power plant was completed and could operate in May 2010. As a result, the power system is more efficient and will support economic growth and the rising demand for electricity in the province. At present, the power plant has the contracted generating capacity of 19 MW.

Characteristics of the Dam

Type:
Earth dam
Reservoir capacity:
710 million m3
Reservoir area:
46.50 km2
Crest width:
8 m
Crest length:
760 m
Height:
58 m
The first earth dam of the country

Characteristics of the Power Plant

Structure:
Reinforced concrete
19 MW
Approximate annual generated electricity:
70 million kWh

Contact

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