Overview
Wichian Buri Solar Power Plant is an 8 MW operational solar PV facility in Thailand, owned by Gunkul Chubu Powergen Company Limited. It contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity under the Alternative Energy Development Plan.
The Wichian Buri Solar Power Plant is an operational solar photovoltaic facility located in Wichian Buri, Thailand. With a capacity of 8 megawatts, it represents a small-to-medium scale solar installation within Thailand's growing renewable energy sector. The plant is owned by Gunkul Chubu Powergen Company Limited, a joint venture between Thai and Japanese entities. Thailand's renewable energy framework is guided by the Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP) targeting 30% renewable energy by 2037. Solar PV projects benefit from feed-in tariffs and adder programs, though recent policy shifts favor competitive bidding. The plant's capacity aligns with typical distributed solar projects that support local grid stability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The facility's location in Wichian Buri, Phetchabun Province, benefits from high solar irradiation typical of central Thailand. As a solar PV plant, it generates electricity without direct emissions, contributing to Thailand's climate goals. The plant's operational status indicates it is actively supplying power to the grid, supporting the region's energy needs and reducing carbon footprint.
Environmental context
Solar PV plants like Wichian Buri have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no air or water emissions. However, land use for solar arrays can impact local ecosystems and agriculture. In Thailand, solar farms are often sited on degraded land to minimize conflicts. The plant's location in a rural area likely involves minimal ecological disruption, though proper decommissioning and recycling of panels are important for long-term sustainability.
Frequently asked questions
The Wichian Buri Solar Power Plant is located in Wichian Buri, Phetchabun Province, Thailand.
The plant has an installed capacity of 8 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale solar PV facility.
The plant is owned by Gunkul Chubu Powergen Company Limited, a joint venture between Gunkul Engineering (Thailand) and Chubu Electric Power (Japan).
Thailand's Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP) targets 30% renewable energy by 2037. Solar projects benefit from feed-in tariffs and adder programs, though recent auctions have shifted to competitive bidding.
Solar PV has low operational emissions but requires land use. In Thailand, solar farms are often placed on degraded land to reduce ecological impact. Panel recycling and end-of-life management are important for sustainability.