PUBLISHED : 2 Dec 2024 at 04:34
The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has introduced solar rooftops at its ports in a bid to establish “green ports”. The rooftops are expected to produce five million kilowatt-hours of solar energy annually.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri said the initiative underscores the global urgency for environmental stewardship. The ministry is pushing for all its agencies to embrace green logistics to transition to a low-carbon society in line with environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles, she said.
The use of solar rooftops reduces carbon dioxide emissions and other greenhouse gases. They would help turn PAT ports into leading green ports, pushing Thailand towards its net-zero emissions goal.
PAT director Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk said solar rooftops, with a capacity of a 3.798 megawatt-peak (MWp), have been installed at parking buildings and warehouses. The rooftops integrate on-grid solar technology, enabling the port to use both self-generated and external electricity. Plans for expansion include the installation of solar panels at the PAT Arena, adding another 622.08 kilowatt-peak (kWp) of capacity across 3,020 square metres.
These efforts could create over five million kilowatt-hours of solar energy annually, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2,574 tonnes per year — equivalent to planting 55,341 trees. The PAT is keen to have carbon-neutral ports by 2050 by adopting clean technology and digitalisation, including automated and energy-efficient systems. These changes could cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50%.