Surat thani: The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has launched a very small network in the Koh Phaluai area, aiming to address the electricity shortages experienced by the island's residents. Mr. Mongkol Trikitjanon, the Governor of PEA, led the opening ceremony of the Very Small Grid Power System Development Project, with Mr. Udomsak Temwong, Deputy Governor of PEA, presenting a report at the event.

According to Thai News Agency, Koh Phaluai is situated in the Ang Thong Subdistrict, part of Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Province, spanning around 16 square kilometers. It hosts approximately 237 households, totaling 500 residents. The island features four government offices and has historically struggled with limited electricity access, relying on solar panels and diesel generators. Despite using batteries to store solar energy, the community faces persistent power issues, exacerbated by weather conditions.

The PEA's initiative involves the installation of 1,000 kW of solar panels, a 1.935 MWh energy storage system, and two backup generators, collectively rated at 600 kW. This project, costing 172 million baht, ensures a 24-hour power supply by alternating between solar power and battery storage based on climatic conditions. When necessary, the microgrid intelligent power system activates the backup generators to maintain electricity supply.

This development is in line with government policies to enhance tourism and employment opportunities while improving residents' quality of life. By promoting eco-tourism through clean energy usage, Koh Phaluai is set to become Thailand's first prototype energy island.