PTTEP Launches Thailand’s First CCS Project to Advance Low-Carbon Energy Transition

PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has given the green light to Thailand’s first carbon capture and storage (CCS) project, approving a USD 320 million (THB 10 billion) investment at the Arthit gas field in the Gulf of Thailand. The final investment decision (FID) marks a milestone in the country’s efforts to deploy CCS technology in support of its Net Zero targets.

Key Step Toward Net Zero

The Arthit CCS Project is designed to capture and store up to 1 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, in line with Thailand’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Action Plan on Mitigation 2021–2030. The government has endorsed the project as one of its flagship greenhouse gas reduction initiatives and is considering supportive measures, including potential tax incentives.

“The Arthit CCS Project will serve as a pilot for cultivating expertise and driving CCS adoption in Thailand, including the Eastern CCS Hub in the Northern Gulf of Thailand,” said Montri Rawanchaikul, CEO of PTTEP. “This has the potential to significantly contribute to the country’s Net Zero target and strengthen long-term economic competitiveness.”

Project Timeline and Scope

The CCS facility is scheduled to begin operations in 2028 following a five-year development phase. PTTEP has conducted extensive studies, including reservoir assessments at depths of 1,000–2,000 meters, engineering design, and a full Measurement, Monitoring and Verification (MMV) program. The project will utilize existing infrastructure at the Arthit field while adding new facilities as required.

PTTEP confirmed that carbon storage activities will not affect natural gas production at the field.

Broader Emissions Strategy

Beyond CCS, PTTEP has rolled out a range of emissions-reduction initiatives, including reusing excess gas, improving production efficiency, expanding renewable energy adoption, and prioritizing low-carbon projects. The company has also supported large-scale reforestation and mangrove planting projects to strengthen natural carbon sinks.

CCS technology, which PTTEP describes as the “reverse process of petroleum exploration,” will play a pivotal role in the nation’s low-carbon transition by safely injecting captured CO₂ into subsurface reservoirs.