Thailand approves regulatory framework for Small Modular Reactors

Thailand's Nuclear Energy for Peace Commission has approved a regulatory framework for Small Modular Reactors (SMR) that aligns with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards. The move is part of an effort to prepare the nation's legal, workforce, and safety infrastructure for potential future nuclear power generation to enhance energy security and meet rising electricity demand from data centers and AI industries.

An assessment of Thailand's nuclear infrastructure against 19 IAEA criteria found the country prepared in 10 areas, while six require further development. Urgent priorities include establishing a national nuclear energy policy, creating a Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation (NEPIO), and developing a financing plan.

To support this transition, the Office of Atoms for Peace has been instructed to accelerate a Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Bill. This legislation aims to establish insurance, financial guarantees, and a state compensation fund. The government views SMR technology as a stable base-load power source that could also stimulate the domestic industrial supply chain, including high-performance components and digital twin technologies.