On 14 September 2020, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and Ministry of Energy (MoE) signed an agreement to design and implement a robust research and development program in energy technology to promote clean energy and strengthen energy security for Thailand. The signing ceremony was officiated by leaderships of both ministries, comprising Mr. Supattanapong Punmeechaow, Deputy Prime Minister and MoE Minister; Prof. Dr. Anek Laothamatas, MHESI Minister; Mr. Kulit Sombatsiri, MoE Permanent Secretary and Mr. Soranit Siltharm, MHESI Permanent Secretary.
This research and development program in energy technology will support Thailand Integrated Energy Blueprint consisting of the following 5 plans: Power Development Plan (PDP), Energy Efficiency Plan (EEP), Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP), Gas Plan (GAS) and Oil Plan (OIL). MHESI will also facilitate and support MoE’s 4D+1E strategy which represents Digitalization – such as smart system for energy management, Decarbonization – low-carbon technologies, Decentralization – decentralized energy system, De-regulation - easing impeding regulations and establishing a sandbox environment for testing new innovations and fostering energy startups, and Electrification – electric vehicle development.