Thailand should build awareness to strengthen trust in nuclear power
Thailand must focus on raising awareness of nuclear power to build public confidence, several experts said during a roundtable session hosted by Krungthep Turakij on Tuesday.
Pennapa Kanchana, deputy secretary-general of the Office of Atoms for Peace, confirmed that Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) provide an alternative for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy security, and decreasing fossil fuel dependence.
Though SMRs generate only one-third of the electricity produced by large power plants, they are easier to construct and safer, she explained, adding that radioactive waste can be processed for medical purposes.
She also noted that Thailand's laws and regulations, established in 2016, align with international standards.
However, Pennapa highlighted the challenges of high construction costs and social acceptance, pointing to public fears stemming from past nuclear disasters in Japan (Fukushima) and Ukraine (Chernobyl).
“Thailand’s laws are ready except for civil responsibilities,” she said, adding that the country should cooperate with global partners to address uncertainties and increase public trust.
Workforce is needed
Somboon Rassame, head of Chulalongkorn University’s nuclear engineering department, pointed out the need for a skilled workforce in Thailand’s nuclear industry due to a lack of expertise and knowledge.
He predicts rapid technological advancements in the next 13 years, creating intense global competition. "Thailand needs to develop courses, training workshops, and international knowledge exchange to remain competitive," he said.
He urged the government to play a key role in promoting in-depth knowledge and education systems that support the development of nuclear technology. Additionally, he emphasised the need to thoroughly design and evaluate the safety of the technology to address public concerns.
Nuclear energy presents an opportunity to strengthen Thailand's energy security. However, achieving this requires serious and systematic preparation of personnel to ensure the country enters the industry with stability and safety.
Knowledge comes with trust
Suchin Udomsomporn, vice president of the Nuclear Society of Thailand, stated that Thailand must focus on building knowledge, strengthening public confidence and improving collaboration among agencies.
She emphasised that raising awareness is key to addressing uncertainties about nuclear power, noting that many people still fear it despite its role in healthcare, such as in X-rays and radioactive therapy.
“Relevant agencies should prioritise providing accurate, transparent, and trustworthy information for future generations,” she said, adding that nuclear power should be included in educational curricula and efforts should be made to create a skilled workforce for the nuclear industry.
Suchin also urged government agencies to enhance collaboration to further build public confidence.
