Mitsubishi Power completes Thailand’s 1.4GW Hin Kong Power Plant

Mitsubishi Power, a division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of the 1,400-megawatt (MW) Hin Kong Power Plant in Thailand. This advanced natural gas-fired gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) facility represents a crucial development in bolstering Thailand’s energy security while incorporating efficient, sustainable power generation technologies.

The successful commissioning of the second M701JAC gas turbine earlier this month marks the final phase of the project. The first turbine began commercial operations in March 2024. The plant is owned by Hin Kong Power Company Limited, a joint venture of RATCH Group Public Company Limited (RATCH) and Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited (GULF), and will contribute to Thailand’s electricity grid under a long-term power purchase agreement with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT).

How Does the Hin Kong Power Plant Address Thailand’s Growing Energy Needs?

Thailand’s rising energy demand has necessitated the development of reliable and high-efficiency power infrastructure. The Hin Kong Power Plant is strategically designed to meet these needs while enhancing energy security and sustainability. Located approximately 100 kilometers west of Bangkok, this facility integrates cutting-edge technologies, including Mitsubishi Power’s JAC gas turbines, recognized globally for their efficiency, reliability, and low emissions.

The combined cycle efficiency of the M701JAC turbines exceeds 64%, making them ideal for balancing renewable energy sources in an evolving power grid. With the completion of this plant, Mitsubishi Power has strengthened Thailand’s power generation capacity, contributing over 14,000 MW to the nation’s grid across various projects.

What Are the Benefits of Mitsubishi Power’s Long-Term Commitment?

Mitsubishi Power’s 25-year Long-Term Service Agreement (LTSA) for the Hin Kong Power Plant underscores its dedication to operational reliability and efficiency. This agreement includes comprehensive maintenance services to ensure uninterrupted energy supply and optimal performance of the gas turbines.

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RATCH CEO Nitus Voraphonpiput highlighted the project’s role in advancing Thailand’s energy sector, stating, “This critical high-efficiency power plant not only addresses the nation’s growing energy demands but also positions Thailand for a more sustainable energy future. Collaborative efforts with Mitsubishi Power have been instrumental in achieving this milestone.”

Similarly, Chaichawin Tantiyankul, Executive Officer at GULF, emphasized that the project strengthens Thailand’s energy grid while fostering economic growth. “The success of this plant reflects strong partnerships, and we are confident that this collaboration will continue to yield innovative and efficient energy solutions,” he said.

How Does This Project Align with Thailand’s Energy Policies?

The Hin Kong Power Plant aligns with Thailand’s strategic energy policies, emphasizing fuel diversification and environmental sustainability. The facility uses natural gas as its primary fuel, ensuring cleaner energy production with lower carbon emissions compared to coal-fired plants.

To secure a stable gas supply, Hin Kong Power Holding Co., Ltd. (HKH) entered a long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) agreement with Gunvor Singapore Pte. Ltd. in 2023. This deal includes importing 1.4 million tons of LNG annually, with an initial shipment delivered in March 2024. The agreement supports consistent power generation while minimizing procurement risks, a crucial factor in maintaining energy security.

What Is Mitsubishi Power’s Role in Thailand’s Energy Transition?

The Hin Kong Power Plant is part of Mitsubishi Power’s broader efforts to advance energy technologies in Southeast Asia. In addition to this project, Mitsubishi Power recently completed a 5,300 MW GTCC project across Thailand’s Rayong and Chonburi provinces. Both initiatives feature a total of ten M701JAC gas turbines, which have collectively achieved over 120,000 operating hours, demonstrating exceptional reliability and performance.

Globally, the JAC gas turbines continue to gain traction, with cumulative orders surpassing 100 units as of 2024. These turbines are designed for shorter startup times, superior load-following capabilities, and compatibility with renewable energy systems, ensuring grid stability in the face of fluctuating energy demands.

Takao Tsukui, Executive Vice President of Mitsubishi Power, stated, “The Hin Kong Power Plant is a testament to our commitment to delivering world-class energy solutions. We are proud to collaborate with RATCH and GULF to achieve sustainable and reliable energy outcomes for Thailand.”

What Does the Future Hold for Thailand’s Energy Sector?

The successful commissioning of the Hin Kong Power Plant signifies a transformative step in Thailand’s journey toward energy resilience. As the country transitions toward cleaner energy sources, facilities like Hin Kong will play a pivotal role in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Mitsubishi Power’s ongoing investments in advanced power generation technologies and long-term partnerships with key stakeholders highlight its strategic role in shaping Southeast Asia’s energy future.