April 2–3, 2026, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
The National Energy Technology Center (ENTEC), under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), in collaboration with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), hosted the 4th-year closing seminar of the “Capability Building for Energy Transition 2026” program. The initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity of energy regulatory personnel to effectively support Thailand’s transition toward future energy systems and its national Net Zero goals. The seminar was honored by welcome remarks from Dr. Sumittra Charojrochkul, Executive Director of ENTEC, and an opening address delivered by Dr. Prasit Siritiprussamee, Deputy Secretary General of the ERC.
The program follows as an integrated curriculum combining energy technology, energy economics, and modern regulatory frameworks. It includes intensive training and both domestic and international study visits. In early 2026, participants undertook a study visit to Japan to explore advanced practices in clean energy management, electricity market structures, and emerging technologies such as hydrogen, nuclear energy, and energy storage systems.
On the domestic front, the program emphasized practical learning through real-world case studies and on-site visits, including a field trip to the Srinagarind Hydropower Plant in Kanchanaburi. This provided participants with firsthand insights into large-scale power generation, grid stability management, and the strategic role of renewable energy in Thailand’s energy landscape. The closing seminar also featured key topics on advanced biofuels, small modular reactors (SMRs), and lessons drawn from the Fukushima nuclear incident, with a particular focus on safety protocols and risk-based regulatory approaches. A dedicated panel discussion on “Energy Transition Technology (Hydrogen-SMR)” provided a platform to examine technological developments and the evolving regulatory challenges they present.
The success of the “Capability Building for Energy Transition 2026” program marks a meaningful step forward in developing Thailand’s energy regulatory workforce. Participants gained critical knowledge of modern technologies, global energy trends, and forward-looking regulatory strategies, while cultivating valuable international and domestic networks. The program establishes a solid foundation for improving the efficiency of Thailand’s energy system and advancing the country’s commitments to sustainable greenhouse gas reduction and long-term Net Zero targets.
