With a five-block complex built in 1977—formerly burning natural gas and diesel—the Energy Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) was looking for the proven, core power that would grow Bangkok’s capacity as well as give Thailand an upward push toward carbon neutrality by 2050.
Retiring the older units and related power technology, GE’s package of two of 9HA.02 gas turbines, two advanced STF-A650 steam turbines, and two W86 generators created the foundation for Bang Pakong Power Plant’s higher-efficiency, lower-carbon operation.
To help ensure efficient and reliable power for Thailand, EGAT has partnered with GE to build the country’s first power plant featuring a GE’s 9HA.02 gas turbine. The Bang Pakong plant is expected to generate 1.4 GW of power; equivalent to powering ~3M homes in the region.
added to grid (some 3 million Thai homes)
of Thailand’s energy born from GE’s 100+ fleet of turbines
worth of modern power capacity for all of Thailand
This modernization is in response to our government’s commitment to retire less efficient and older plants, replacing them with new, highly efficient combined-cycle facilities. This is a solution that reduces emissions and increases the reliability and flexibility of Thailand’s power system.
EGAT Deputy Governor—Power Plant Development and Renewable Energy
Prasertsak Cherngchawano
Two new gas-fired combined cycle blocks have been activated at EGAT’s Bang Pakong Power Plant. Blocks 1 and 2 are each now powered by GE’s 9HA.02 gas turbines. Not only are GE’s most efficient 50 Hz turbines a first in a Thailand plant, they also replaced units from a system built in the late 70s.
EGAT’s objective in teaming with GE was to improve the overall efficiency of its Bang Pakong plant while shrinking their carbon footprint. GE delivered, with some added 1,400 MW—the power equivalent of approximately three million Thai homes’ usage. In addition, two advanced STF-A650 steam turbines complement two W86 generators (the largest in the world), completing the plant’s new power profile.
As the main producer for the country, EGAT’s renewed power plant doesn’t just benefit from the 9HA gas turbines’ assist in lower OpEx. EGAT also has its eye on reduced CO2 and NOx emissions, aiming to add momentum to Thailand’s energy transition, growing a power system that might achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065.
With the start of commercial operations in 2022, the Bang Pakong Combined Cycle project is the largest GE power plant in Thailand. GE continues to support the advancement of the country's energy goals, providing long-term parts, repairs, and maintenance services for the combined cycle plant’s assets.
With a goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065, Thailand needs an energy partner with the right technology solutions to help the country continue providing reliable, cleaner power for its nearly 70 million residents. GE has the answer with the 9HA gas turbine.
