An agreement signing between NSTDA and Energy Absolute Public Company Limited (EA) took place on 23 January 2023 at Thailand Science Park.  The agreement aims to support collaboration in industrial research to underpin the Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) model. Guests of honor at the ceremony included Prof. Dr. Anek Laothamatas, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and MHESI Permanent Secretary Prof. Sirirurg Songsivilai, M.D.

Minister Anek Laothamatas remarked that this public-private initiative represents a progressive model for a government research institute like NSTDA to perform industry-driven research. Unlike conventional approach taken by academic research which focuses on supply side, industry-driven research strategically closes the gap between science and business, thus contributing substantially to industrial innovation and economic development. More importantly, this collaboration will underpin the BCG model which represents the key agenda of Thailand and APEC. This collaboration will provide an industrial centric environment where a knowledge institution and a company can co-create innovative solutions that become national product champions for Thailand.

EA is a leader in renewable, clean energy and electric vehicle in Thailand. With business portfolio encompasses biodiesel production, wind power and solar power plants, energy storage system, electric vehicle and charging station, the company is playing a key role in bringing Thailand toward a low-carbon future.

NSTDA President Prof. Dr. Sukit Limpijumnong said that this collaboration will help bring out NSTDA expertise to create innovative products and solutions for industry. It will provide a space for researchers and industry to exchange ideas and learn from each other, leading to the development of national product champions, not only in the areas of battery, electric vehicles and infrastructure, but also in the domains of biochemicals and healthcare.

EA CEO Mr. Somphote Ahunai added that under this agreement, EA and NSTDA will focus on research in green businesses and clean energy to support sustainable economic growth as proposed by the BCG model. Both parties are in preparation to set up an R&D center for BCG industry to drive research and application in the following sectors: 1) battery and electric vehicles, 2) biochemicals, and 3) health and medicine. The company hopes that this joint research will help accelerate industrial development and contribute to sustainable growth of the energy sector.