Thailand is undergoing a remarkable transformation in its energy sector. Under the country’s Power Development Plan (PDP) and the Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP), Thailand has set a target for 30% of total energy to come from renewables by 2037. According to the Bangkok Post (2024), renewables are projected to rise from around 20% today to 51% of the electricity mix by 2037, while coal and natural gas will still account for about 48%, underscoring the continued need for modernization and clean technology solutions.

To achieve these goals, Thailand has announced major investments: ฿400 billion in smart grid development, and ฿115 billion in electric mobility over the next decade. These investments add to an even broader strategy that includes energy storage, floating solar, and carbon capture.

This dynamic environment is driving Thai businesses to look abroad for innovative partnerships and technologies. Italy, with its mature and technology-driven energy market, offers a compelling destination. For instance, Terna, Italy’s grid operator, has committed to investing €16.5 billion (~$18 billion) by 2028 to digitize and modernize its electricity grid.

Italian firms are also pioneering in clean energy: Italgas and Edison will launch a pilot project in 2025 to supply an industrial plant with up to 20% green hydrogen blended into its energy system. Meanwhile, GreenIT, a leading renewable energy joint venture, is expanding its solar portfolio with 140 MW of new PV projects by 2027, as part of Italy’s path toward 1,000 MW of installed capacity according to EuropaWire.

Together, these examples show how Italian expertise in renewables, energy efficiency, smart grids, and clean conventional technologies can provide Thai investors with both cutting-edge know-how and a gateway into the European energy market.

Bridging Thai Energy Goals with Italian Innovation

Italy stands at the forefront of Europe’s energy transformation, offering a wealth of experience and innovation that aligns seamlessly with Thailand’s energy goals. Here’s how Italy’s advancements can complement Thailand’s ambitions:

• Renewable Energy Leadership
  • Italy has demonstrated a strong commitment to renewable energy, with significant progress in solar and wind power:
  • Solar Energy: In 2024, Italy installed 6.8 GW of new solar photovoltaic capacity, marking a 30% increase from the previous year. This surge is primarily driven by utility-scale projects, which grew by 163% in the same period.
  • Wind Energy: The country continues to expand its wind energy capacity, contributing to a diversified renewable energy mix.
• Energy Storage Advancements
  • Energy storage is critical for integrating renewable energy into the grid. Italy is making significant strides in this area:
  • Battery Storage: As of late 2024, Italy had installed approximately 5.1 GW of battery energy storage systems, with plans to add 10.5 GW by 2030.
  • Innovative Technologies: Companies like Energy Dome are pioneering CO₂-based long-duration storage solutions, which have garnered international interest, including partnerships with global tech firms like Google.
• Smart Grid Infrastructure
  • Modernizing grid infrastructure is essential for accommodating the increasing share of renewable energy. Italy is investing heavily in smart grid technologies:
  • Grid Modernization: The European Investment Bank has committed €120 million to support Italy’s grid modernization efforts, aiming to enhance the integration of renewable energy sources.
  • Digitalization Initiatives: Terna, Italy’s transmission system operator, plans to invest over €23 billion by 2034 to upgrade and digitalize the national grid, ensuring it meets future energy demands.
• Clean Conventional Power Technologies
  • Italy is also focusing on reducing emissions from conventional power sources:
  • Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): The country is investing in CCS technologies to mitigate emissions from existing fossil fuel plants, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
  • Gas-Fired Plant Upgrades: Significant investments are being made to modernize gas-fired power plants, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Italian Innovators at Enlit Asia 2025

Next week, Enlit Asia 2025 will take place in Bangkok at BITEC BANGNA, from 9-11 September.

The region’s leading platform for the power sector. The event unites over 12,000 visitors and 350 exhibitors across conventional and renewable energy, smart grids, and emerging technologies. Several Italian companies, including our own, will showcase their solutions providing Thai and international investors with:

• unique opportunity to explore collaboration
• see technologies in action
• discuss joint ventures

Seizing the Moment

Thailand’s transition to a low-carbon economy is advancing, supported by government policies, increased demand, and steady capital investment. For Thai businesses interested in investing with Italian companies, having a reliable and knowledgeable partner is essential to navigate regulatory and compliance challenges. Enlit Asia 2025 provides a platform to connect with Italian energy experts and gain insights into the future of energy in Thailand and beyond, supported by trusted advisors who understand both markets. For further information on regulatory compliance in the energy sector, please contact ALLEGAL.