Publications

Survey of Energy Resources 2007

Geothermal Country Notes

Thailand
Investigations of geothermal features in Thailand began in 1946 and subsequently more than 90 hot springs located throughout the country were mapped. However, it was not until 1979 that systematic studies of the resources began.

A small (0.3 MWe) binary-cycle power plant was installed at Fang, in the far north near the border with Myanmar. Since commissioning in December 1989, this sole Thai geothermal plant has operated successfully, with an 85-90% availability factor. In addition, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is using the 80^oC exhaust from the power plant to demonstrate direct heat uses to the local population. The exhaust can be used for crop drying and air conditioning (the latter not currently in use). A further example of utilising the heat directly is a public bathing pond and sauna that have been constructed by the Mae Fang National Park.

Geothermal systems at San Kampaeng, Pai and nine other locations are reported to be under further investigation, but to date Thailand's national programme on geothermal energy has still not been firmly established and no other developments have occurred.