EGAT collaborated with its networks to find ways to solve global warming and achieve a low carbon society (Net Zero). They also launched the Mae Moh City Data Platform, a tool supporting environmental problem solving like PM2.5 and smart urban development. Using Mae Moh District as a model for livable cities, they plan to expand this platform to other cities across the country.
On April 28, 2023, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) launched the Mae Moh City Data Platform. Professor Dr. Pisut Painmanakul, Secretary to the Minister of Energy presided over the opening ceremony which was attended by Mrs. Lisa Buzenas, U.S. Consul General Chiang Mai; Mr. Jakgrapong Yamyim, Director of the Low Carbon City and Society Office, Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (Public Organization); Professor Dr. Sompong Klaynongsruang, Director of Program Management Unit for Human Resources & Institutional Development, Research and Innovation; Mr. Chanathip Semyam, Deputy Governor of Lampang Province; and Mr. Charan Khumngeon, EGAT Deputy Governor – Generation. The event was held at EGAT Mae Moh, Mae Moh District, Lampang Province.
Professor Dr. Pisut Painmanakul, Secretary to the Minister of Energy stated that smog in Thailand has become more severe and widespread due to the large amount of fine particles generated from various sources, such as burning, combustion of car engines, construction activities, and changes in global climate conditions. Therefore, the sustainable urban development should prioritize important principles, namely ensuring safety and improving the quality of life for the people. To create livable cities, it is essential to have a large amount of data (Big Data), covering monitoring system and accessible technology and innovation for air quality management. This includes forecasting of various pollutants from atmospheric and emission sources, promoting behavioral changes, and implementing government policies and measures to promote green spaces and good management practices in transportation, industry, and collaboration with international partners. The involvement of the government, private sector, local communities, and the public in all dimensions is also necessary for successful management.
Moreover, sustainable urban development through the integration of Big Data is an important mechanism for accelerating Thailand’s ability to address climate change issues as well as achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and Net Zero Emissions by 2065. This is an area where the energy sector can participate in policy linkage, as well as promote and support sustainable outcomes.
Mrs. Lisa Buzenas, U.S. Consul General Chiang Mai said that in the past, EGAT was awarded a grant from the US organization to conduct feasibility study of clean energy technology. Moreover, EGAT has exchanged electricity generation technology with US industrial companies to reduce carbon emissions. The effort is an important step in driving Thailand toward a clean energy transition, which is similar to that of the United States. Furthermore, the United States has sought new ways to promote cooperation in Thailand and the region through clean energy and Net Zero projects under the US Department of Energy. The ongoing haze crisis has had a significant impact on the public health, economic growth, and tourism. As a result, the United States provided financial support for forest fire suppression in Northern Thailand, as well as supporting satellite and air quality sensors for universities and researchers to track air quality data through an online system.
Mr. Charan Khumngeon, EGAT Deputy Governor – Generation said thatEGAT emphasizes the importance of environmental care and quality of life promotion by developing the Mae Moh City Data Platform. This platform, which is piloted in Mae Moh District, is another key to upgrade the city to Net Zero. The platform collects, analyzes, and displays various urban data, such as air quality, hotspots and forest fires, green areas, waste, water, and greenhouse gas emissions in real-time using actual data from big data sources. The data will be used for developing the city for citizens, officials, and city authorities in decision making on management, disaster warning, and environmental problem solving in accordance with the context of digitalization. The platform will be expanded to the provincial level and various cities in the future.
. They launch the Mae Moh City Data Platform, a tool for sustainable urban development and environmental problem-solving. Using Mae Moh District as a model, they plan to expand this platform to other cities across Thailand.){kind=link}