Southern Thailand became the classroom for students of the Sustainable Energy Transition academic program from the School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD) at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) during a five-day field trip from September 30 to October 4, 2024. Students from diverse countries, including Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, the Philippines, India, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Germany, got a firsthand look at Thailand’s energy transition efforts, with visits to solar, hydro, natural gas, and biomass energy facilities.
The field trip, part of AIT-SERD’s innovative Sustainable Energy Transition program, offers students an opportunity to move beyond theoretical studies and engage directly with cutting-edge energy technologies. The program, which draws students from over 25 countries each year, emphasizes interdisciplinary learning focused on addressing global energy challenges.
Solar Power in Thap Sakae: A Bright Start
The journey began at the EGAT Learning Center in Thap Sakae, where the students were welcomed by Thailand’s serene mountains and sea breezes. They toured a 5-megawatt solar power plant, learning about the critical role renewable energy plays in reducing carbon footprints. Through hands-on activities, the group experienced how solar energy is generated and how nature and technology can work together to create sustainable solutions.
Hydropower at Ratchaprapha Dam: Harnessing Nature’s Power
Day two took students to the breathtaking Ratchaprapha Dam in Surat Thani, located in the heart of Khao Sok National Park. As students gazed at the towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters, they learned how the dam’s hydroelectric power plant balances energy production with environmental preservation. EGAT engineers walked them through the dam’s operations, offering insights into how Thailand utilizes water’s power while protecting the surrounding ecosystem.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms Nwein Htay Win said, “Standing here, we are reminded of how important it is to protect what we have while innovating for the future.”
Natural Gas in Khanom: The Energy of the Present
The third day featured a visit to Khanom Power Plant in Khanom District, where students learned about natural gas energy production. They toured a cutting-edge combined cycle gas turbine plant that powers much of southern Thailand. Set against the backdrop of the Gulf of Thailand’s crystal-clear waters, the visit illustrated how advanced technology can coexist with pristine environments.
“To stand between such advanced technology and the natural beauty of Khanom is to realize our responsibility as engineers to preserve the balance,” Mr. Kishore Kumar Chintaluri student shared during the visit.
Krabi’s Energy Transition: From Coal to Palm Oil
Krabi, renowned for its stunning cliffs and rainforests, was the focus of day four. Students visited the Krabi Thermal Power Plant, once a coal-fired facility now transformed to run on palm oil, in line with Thailand’s renewable energy goals. As students explored the plant’s operations, the island’s natural beauty reminded them of the urgency of transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
“Being here, in a place so naturally beautiful, makes you realize that transitioning to cleaner energy is not just an option—it’s a necessity,” said Mr. Varawut Kornsiriluk while overlooking the coastline.
Biomass in Chumporn: Turning Waste into Power
On the final day, students visited Chumporn’s Palm Oil Industry Biomass Co-Generation Power Plant. They saw how agricultural waste is turned into valuable energy, contributing to Thailand’s green energy mix while supporting local industries. The experience highlighted the potential of biomass to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
“This place is a shining example of how every part of nature can be used responsibly. In nature, waste doesn’t exist—everything has value,”, Mr. Eman Noel G. Canada remarked,
reflecting on the tour.
The field trip gave students a powerful understanding of sustainable energy practices and the importance of innovation in solving global energy challenges. As all students noted, “This trip has inspired us to see that sustainable energy is not just a goal but a journey we must all take.”
