Regarding the Agreements for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation (123 Agreements) that Thailand made with the U.S., Mr. Wattanapong Kurovat, Director General of Energy Policy and Planning Office, Ministry of Energy, pointed out that the ministry is in the process of publishing a new power development plan (PDP). The nuclear power plant’s details will be included in PDP 2035 – 2036, citing the priority of pushing for a net zero achievement.
Mr. Wattanapong stated that the renewable source cannot generate sufficient energy, indicating the need for a nuclear energy source. Still, both sectors will not compete but will synergize as the small modular reactor (SMR) is stable, clean, and not expensive. Since the U.S. is currently advancing its SMR technology, this agreement may assist Thailand in finding the best technology. So far, France, the U.S. and China already have their own SMR power plants.
The U.S. Department of State’s official website published an announcement stating that the 123 Agreement came into effect on July 9, 2025. This action is part of a support on Executive Order 14299 — Deploying Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies for National Security and the effort to proceed with the U.S. President Donald Trump’s strategic objectives.
The 123 Agreement serves as a collaborative framework, covering the peaceful uses of nuclear energy between Thailand and the U.S. It also highlights the shared goal of preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and encouraging the transfer of equipment, machines, reactors, components, and data for research and production of civilian nuclear energy. This sector plays a significant role in generating energy security and pushing economic growth due to its ability to help nations generate stable energy domestically.
In addition, the agreement will improve Thailand and the U.S.’ cooperation in terms of energy, diplomacy, and economy. It will also support Thailand in achieving its energy goal, fostering trade cooperation with the U.S.’ nuclear industry in advanced reactor technology, and creating jobs for both nations through the transfer of advanced U.S. nuclear technology.
The announcement also stated that the U.S. aims to create long term and sustainable civil nuclear energy collaboration with Thailand.
