Background

In 1966, there were only 2 large-scale power plants in Thailand, i. e. North Bangkok Power Plant and Power Plant of Bhumibol Dam. As the electricity demand had risen according to the growth of the country, it was necessary for EGAT to prepare the 5-year plan to increase the number of both hydropower and thermal power plants to enhance the security of the electricity system.   

The objective of the 5-year Power Development Plan (1967-1971) was to increase the electricity generation sources. The thermal power plant is regarded as the main source and hydropower plant as additional source at the peak time. As such, the cost in electricity generation will be low, while the security of the power system is highest.

South Bangkok Power Plant was included in the 5-year Power Development Plan and received approval for construction by the Cabinet on May 16, 1967, while the construction began in 1967. From the end of 1968, the initial phase of the construction started with the land improvement from the former vegetable patch, construction of a road of 2.5 km to the headwork as well as the quay and pier and installation of the cranes for the construction of the building foundation of Units 1 and 2. Then the construction of other components was carried out such as the intake building, drainage tunnel, warehouse, building of substation followed by the installation of electrical equipment such as boiler, substation, and integrated circuit breakers etc. On November 6, 1972, the opening ceremony of South Bangkok Power Plant was performed by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great.