Weather Forcasting System

AR-QADS (Air Quality Automated-program for Decision-making Support) is an air quality forecasting system developed by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). The system is designed to accurately and efficiently forecast air quality and weather conditions in areas surrounding EGAT’s power plants nationwide. It utilizes high-performance computer clusters and advanced mathematical models to perform complex calculations. The data generated by this system can be applied in various areas, including:

  • Power Plant Operation Planning:
    Data from the AR-QADS system can be used to support operational planning, maintenance scheduling, and other activities that may affect air quality, enabling EGAT to minimize potential impacts on nearby communities.
  • Environmental Management:
    The system allows for effective monitoring and assessment of environmental impacts resulting from EGAT’s operations.
  • Community Communication:
    Forecast data serve as a transparent communication tool to foster mutual understanding and trust between EGAT and surrounding communities.
  • Decision-Making Support:
    The system provides valuable insights for both public and private agencies involved in air quality management and policy formulation.
  • Daily Life Applications:
    The general public can also benefit from AR-QADS data for planning activities such as fishing, navigation, or monitoring haze and smoke situations.

AR-QADS operates by integrating a variety of meteorological and environmental data — including surface observations and air quality monitoring station data — which are then processed using a sophisticated mathematical model (RAMS model) to generate forecasts of meteorological and air quality conditions for specific target areas. The system is capable of forecasting up to seven days in advance.

Currently, AR-QADS has been deployed in 12 areas across Thailand, including: the vicinity of the Mae Moh Power Plant and Mine, Bang Pakong Power Plant, North Bangkok Power Plant, South Bangkok Power Plant, Wang Noi Power Plant, Nam Phong Power Plant, Lam Takhong Wind Farm, Krabi Power Plant and its coastal area, Thepha District and its coastal zone, and the Indochina Peninsula area.

The AR-QADS system serves as an essential tool enabling EGAT to effectively manage environmental impacts and minimize disturbances to nearby communities. Furthermore, it exemplifies EGAT’s commitment to leveraging technology for tangible social and environmental benefits.