Thailand signs MOU for comprehensive electric charging station project

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), the Office of the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EECO), and the Thai Department of Energy Business signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Monday concerning a comprehensive electric charging station project within Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The ceremony took place at the EGAT Head Office in Nonthaburi.

Sarawut Kaewtathip, director-general of the Department of Energy Business, announced the ceremony. He revealed that the National Electric Vehicle Policy Committee (EV Board) has an ambitious goal of transforming Thailand’s entire automotive system into an electric automotive industry.

Sarawut stated that for such a transition to occur, a comprehensive electric charging station, capable of meeting demand within the EEC, is essential. He also noted that the station would serve as a learning centre for interested individuals and young people who wish to study the prototype project spearheaded by the Thai Ministry of Energy.

Meanwhile, Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of EECO, made a public statement noting the significance of this step towards improving and elevating the standards in the development of EV charging stations and related industries within the EEC. He pointed out that the ultimate aim is to establish the EEC as a digital business development centre that encourages investment in clean-energy research and development, thus promoting environmental sustainability.

Thepparat Theppitak, Governor of EGAT, added that currently, Thailand boasts nearly 200 charging stations, which are trusted for their high efficiency and stability. This trust has led to a steady increase in the number of electric vehicle users each year.

The collaboration between the three agencies will result in the development of a prototype EV charging station (EleX by EGAT Eco Charging Sphere) with full services in Sriracha, Chon Buri, and within the EEC. The station, expected to be fully operational by 2025, will also house other facilities such as restaurants, coffee shops, and relaxation spaces, all under the banner of Green Energy.

EV parts manufacturing

Sarawut stated that Thailand would be an important manufacturing base for electric automotive parts.

“A comprehensive electric charging station that could adequately meet the demand in the EEC was needed for the shift.”

Emphasising the importance of the project, Chula Sukmanop stated that it is a crucial step in enhancing and raising the standard in the development of EV charging stations and related industries in the EEC, reported Pattaya News.

According to Thepparat Theppitak, there are almost 200 charging stations in Thailand at present that are trusted with their high efficiency and stability resulting in a surging number of electric vehicle users each year.