Landmark power project at Sirindhorn Dam aims to boost electricity supply and tourism
A hydro-floating solar hybrid project coming up at Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani province is being conceived as a new landmark for renewable energy and also stimulate the province's economy by the end of this year.
Ubon Ratchathani Governor Sarit Witoon said Sirindhorn Dam was one of the province's attractions that many tourists visited.
"The hydro-floating solar hybrid project will draw tourists to see the beauty of floating solar cells," Sarit said.
He added that the move was in line with the province's development plan that focuses on creating environmentally friendly economic and social growth.
Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) Governor Boonyanit Wongrukmit said the 45-megawatt hydro-floating solar hybrid project will be the first of its kind in Thailand that can produce solar and hydro electricity to resolve the problem of uncertain power supply from a renewable source.
"We expect the project to generate electricity for commercial use by June this year," Boonyanit said.
He added that the EGAT had prepared tourist facilities in the area, such as souvenir shops, bicycle rental shops, tourist bus checkpoints and rafting area in a bid to stimulate tourism, create jobs and generate income for the community.