Thailand Advances SMR Regulatory Preparedness to Strengthen Energy Security

On September 8, 2026, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Yodchanan Wongsawat, chaired the second meeting of the "Nuclear Energy for Peace Committee" in 2026 at Government House. The meeting discussed Thailand's long-term nuclear energy strategy and preparatory work on the regulatory framework, talent development, and industrial supply chain for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The Thai government emphasized that these efforts constitute preliminary capacity building and do not imply a decision to construct nuclear power plants.

The meeting approved an SMR regulatory policy framework. Drawing on relevant standards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the framework aims to prepare for Thailand's future energy needs and reduce dependence on imported fuel. Yodchanan stated that Thailand has long faced energy price and supply volatility due to imported fuel, and that nuclear energy development would help enhance energy security while potentially creating opportunities for local Thai manufacturers to participate in emerging high-technology sectors.

According to an assessment based on the IAEA's 19 infrastructure issues for nuclear energy, Thailand currently has foundational capacity in 10 areas, requires further development in 6 areas, and faces urgent progress in 3 priority areas: formulating national policy, establishing a Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organization (NEPIO) to drive programme implementation, and developing a financing scheme.

The meeting reached consensus on four key preparatory tasks.

In the legislative area, the Office of Atoms for Peace was tasked with expediting the drafting of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act for submission to the Cabinet for consideration. The proposed act aims to establish an insurance system, financial security mechanisms, and transparent, fair national fund arrangements consistent with international standards.

In the human resources area, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the Ministry of Education, the Office of the National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council, and the Ministry of Energy will jointly develop educational programmes and long-term talent development plans covering areas such as SMR technology and nuclear safety regulations.

Thailand will also formulate a national policy for the full life-cycle management of radioactive waste and spent fuel. Thai officials stated that the policy should clearly assign primary responsibility to the current generation to avoid shifting the burden of nuclear waste management to future generations.

In the supply chain area, the Board of Investment of Thailand will collaborate with the Office of Atoms for Peace and relevant research institutions to develop a strategy for Thai local manufacturers to participate in the global SMR supply chain. Potential areas include high-performance pumps and valves, radiation-resistant advanced building materials, grid integration, advanced engineering technologies, and artificial intelligence-driven digital twin systems.

Yodchanan emphasized that this meeting does not mean Thailand has determined an SMR construction site or technology pathway. The government's current objective is to build a sufficient information base, professional capacity, and regulatory capability before making any major policy decisions. He stated that Thailand should not merely be a technology purchaser, but should also strive to become a creator of technological value.

Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, stated that the Ministry is prepared to mobilize universities and research institutions nationwide to support research and development efforts, offer specialized courses, and cultivate highly skilled personnel including nuclear engineers, cybersecurity experts, data scientists, and technology law professionals to underpin a new nuclear-related industrial ecosystem.

Rungrueng Kitipat, Secretary-General of the Office of Atoms for Peace, stated that nuclear safety remains the top priority. The regulatory body will adhere to the nuclear safety "3S" framework, namely safety, security, and safeguards. The Office is also developing regulations and emergency response plans for nuclear and radiological accidents to link national policy with local response mechanisms. Thai officials also stressed that public participation, transparency, and information disclosure are vital to building public trust.

The meeting also approved the appointment of six experts to the Committee's board, with expertise spanning science, engineering, agriculture, law, and medicine. Thailand stated that this move aims to bring together multidisciplinary expertise to foster a nuclear energy ecosystem that is safe, aligned with international standards, and conducive to enhancing self-reliance.

At present, Thailand's nuclear energy efforts remain focused on "preparation" rather than "construction." Before deciding whether and how SMR technology will be incorporated into the future energy mix, Thailand plans to first strengthen its rules, talent base, and industrial capabilities.