From Ambition to Implementation: Strengthening Thailand’s Energy Planning Capacity

Achieving clean energy targets requires more than policy commitments. It depends on institutions having the planning and operational capacity to manage complexity, coordinate investment, and ensure reliability as systems transition.

To support this capability in Thailand, Partnerships for Infrastructure (P4I) hosted a five-day technical training in Brisbane from 4–8 August 2025 for senior officials from the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). The training focused on integrated system planning — a critical function for operating a renewables-based electricity system — and drew on Australia’s experience with energy market design, long-term modelling, and inclusive planning frameworks.

Delivered in partnership with energy specialists from P4I, the program provided practical insights into the design of Australia’s National Electricity Market (NEM), the development and use of the Integrated System Plan (ISP), and the application of modelling tools such as PLEXOS and TSIRP. Participants examined how these tools support planning decisions across generation, transmission, and demand, and how they can be adapted to Thailand’s national energy priorities.

The training also addressed emerging operational challenges such as grid stability, network congestion, and system strength, including technical sessions and site visits with Powerlink Queensland. These engagements offered participants a real-world perspective on how transmission system operators are preparing for increasing levels of variable renewable energy.

Importantly, the program emphasised that effective energy planning extends beyond technical modelling. Sessions explored how integrated planning processes can incorporate gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) considerations, and how stakeholder engagement improves both transparency and long-term outcomes.

This activity forms part of Australia’s broader partnership with EGAT and the Ministry of Energy to support Thailand’s transition to a cleaner, more inclusive energy system. It also reflects P4I’s commitment to strengthening the enabling environment for infrastructure in Southeast Asia, supporting institutions to lead transitions that are locally driven, technically robust, and responsive to national development needs.

By investing in planning and operational capability, the energy transition becomes not only more achievable, but more inclusive, reliable, and aligned with long-term development priorities.