Srinagarind Dam Floating Solar Project: Enhancing Energy Security, Driving Sustainability
15 September 2025Amid the global challenge of climate change, dependency on clean energy has become a necessity rather than just an option. Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), which is responsible for maintaining the country’s energy security, has been developing floating solar projects. These projects not only enhance the energy security but also coexist harmoniously with nature and surrounding communities, to foster sustainability for Thailand. Due to the success of the projects at Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani Province and Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen Province, EGAT continues to develop Srinagarind Dam Floating Solar Project 1, with a generating capacity of 140 MW, in Kanchanaburi Province. This marks another important step in driving clean, secure, and sustainable energy for Thailand.
A New Step for Clean Energy at Srinagarind Dam
The Srinagarind Dam Floating Solar Project 1 is located in the dam’s reservoir, covering about 1,020 rai, or 0.55% of the total water surface area. The project has been developed with a focus on efficient resource utilization. It uses the existing transmission towers and water surface. The solar panels will be installed on floating platforms, avoiding the use of land and without encroaching on agricultural and forest areas. Instead, the temperature of the floating solar panels will be minimized, resulting in better efficiency of the generation system. Moreover, the project helps reduce the import of fossil fuels whose costs are high and unstable due to global market fluctuation. Therefore, it enhances the security of the power system sustainably.
Clean Technology for Sustainable Environment
EGAT has developed the project with environmental concern in every stage, starting from site planning with consideration for the scenic beauty of the dam, a natural tourist attraction. To ensure eco-friendliness, EGAT uses double-glass solar panels, which prevent moisture from seeping into the panels and contaminants from entering the water, while also providing a long lifespan. The floating platforms are made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), the same material used for water pipes, making them environmentally safe. The solar panels are installed at an inclination angle that allows light and oxygen to penetrate the water, thus not affecting water quality or aquatic animals. In addition, the solar panels help reduce water evaporation, which benefits the water resource management of the dam.
“Clean Energy,” a National Goal
The project plays a role in driving Thailand toward a low-carbon economy, the goal of the National Energy Plan and the strategy to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and Net Zero Emissions by 2065 concretely.
Generate Energy, Build Community Opportunities, and Create a Sustainable Future
Apart from caring for the environment, the project emphasizes public participation, starting from the planning stage. Public hearings are held and economic benefits are provided in various ways, including local employment during construction stage, infrastructure development funded by the Power Plant Development Fund, and tourism. It also serves as a learning source on renewable energy and environmental conservation for local youth and people, fostering understanding, pride, and a sense of ownership in the project, which contributes to sustainability at the local and national levels.
EGAT’s floating solar projects not only increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s generation mix, but also serve as an important step in reducing the risk of power shortage and addressing fluctuating energy prices, while driving Thailand toward a secure and sustainable future. With the integration of clean energy technology and efficient use of existing resources, coupled with sustainable community development, the projects contribute to national development across the dimensions of energy, economy, quality of life, and the environment amid the global change.