SCG Joins Hands with EGAT to Develop Floating Solar Farm’s Mooring System for Power Generation

Chemicals Business, SCG, pushed forward its floating solar solution project, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreement with Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to work collaboratively in research and development of mooring system for floating solar farm in EGAT’s reservoirs and dams.

Mr. Saharath Boonpotipukdee, Deputy Governor - Renewable and New Energy of Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand said, “Renewable energy has taken the world’s attention with a growth rate of 25%, particularly in the solar cell which grows at a significant pace. Generally, large solar farms take up vast land space. EGAT and Ministry of Energy came up with the floating solar farm project and worked collectively with SCG which has expertise and experience in developing floating solar farm for power generation. SCG is well-known for its world-class R&D which is a result of today’s collaboration to develop effective mooring system for EGAT’s reservoirs and dams. This collaboration is truly regarded as mutual R&D effort on solar energy developed by Thai people for Thai people.”

Mr. Somchai Wangwattanapanich, Senior Vice President of Chemicals Business, SCG, disclosed, “The study on floating solar farm is new to Thailand. This collaboration is a challenge for both SCG and EGAT, especially the development of the efficient mooring system for floating solar farm on the surface with several geographical factors including wind, current and water depth which is different from SCG’s current solar farm structure. We believe that the capabilities of both sides will be able to deliver the efficient mooring system. Furthermore, this challenge will make the shift in Thailand toward clean energy.”

Chemicals Business provides the first floating solar solution in Thailand which offers a series of services ranging from system designing, installation, handling permission, electrical Installation to maintenance. The strength of the floating solar farm is simple installation coupled with excellent space efficiency compared to other floating solar platforms. SCG’s floating pontoons are made of high-quality polyethylene resin which employs strength and durability and is eco-friendly. The pontoons can last up to 25 years which is equivalent to the solar panel’s lifecycle. The long-lasting benefit helps reduce the costs associated with solar panel's maintenance.

Main photo from right to left:

1. Mrs. Sriwan Buranachokepisal, Director of Research and Development of Renewable and New Energy, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand

2. Mr. Chatchai Mawong, Director of Research and Development of Renewable Energy, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand

3. Mr. Saharath Boonpotipukdee, Deputy Governor - Renewable and New Energy, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand

4. Mr. Somchai Wangwattanapanich, Senior Vice President of Chemicals Business, SCG

5. Dr. Suracha Udomsak, R&D Director of Chemicals Business, SCG

6. Mr. Thammanoon Srimandakul, Energy Business Manager of Chemicals Business, SCG