NXPO in partnership with the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) and the National Institute of Green Technology (NIGT) recently hosted a seminar titled “Path to Green Hydrogen Technologies via UNFCCC Technology Mechanism”. The seminar which took place on 24 April 2023 was held at the Sukosol Hotel Bangkok and live-streamed. 

In his opening speech, NXPO President Dr. Kitipong Promwong remarked that NXPO is Thailand’s national designated entity (NDE) for climate technology development and transfer in the technology mechanism of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). In this role, NXPO has facilitated the transfer of climate technology, including emission reduction and adaptation, as well as the access to finance. The work was performed in collaboration with the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

“Thailand aims to achieve net zero emission target by 2065. To meet this goal, it is necessary to employ technology and innovation, coupled with behavior change. Green hydrogen represents a promising technology that can reduce greenhouse gas emission across various sectors, including energy, transport and industrial sectors. 

Thailand has started to roll out its green hydrogen policy as an alternative energy. Activities are mainly driven by ONEP and the industrial sector through Hydrogen Thailand Club in collaboration with research institutes. However, some of the hydrogen used in Thailand is grey hydrogen which is derived from non-eco-friendly process. A thorough study analyzing strengths and weaknesses of each technology is essential for the transition to green hydrogen,” said Dr. Kitipong.

The seminar program consisted of presentations from NXPO, ONEP, CTCN and the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) under the Ministry of Energy. NXPO Vice President Dr. Surachai Sathitkunarat presented a study assessing tech-economic and environmental impact of green hydrogen. The project will provide inputs to the formulation of national hydrogen strategy and action plan for accelerating Thailand’s net-zero target. This project is supported by the UNFCCC Technology Mechanism and conducted by NIGT policy research team. In addition to the presentations, a panel discussion on “The Future of Hydrogen in Thailand” was held with panelists from the Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment (JGSEE), Hydrogen Thailand Club and ONEP.