Highlights
The Vice President is launching a new clean energy partnership with Thailand to build capacity for the secure and safe deployment of advanced nuclear reactor technologies under the U.S. Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Program. This partnership builds on almost 50 years of U.S.-Thailand civil nuclear cooperation. The FIRST program will work with experts from government, academia, industry, and national laboratories to explore options to advance Thailand’s goal of Net Zero Emissions by 2065 through deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) under the highest standards of safety, security and nonproliferation. This partnership will help Thailand take advantage of the unique benefits of SMRs that provide 24/7 reliable power, complement other clean energy sources, use a small land footprint, and incorporate advanced safety features. Cooperation under FIRST will also deepen strategic ties, support clean energy innovation, and advance technical collaboration between the two countries.
Fact Sheet – Office of the Spokesperson
Highlights
Both sides were pleased with the progress made on the cooperation related to climate and environment. Relevant agencies is working closely to develop collaboration programs under the United States’ Net Zero World Initiative to support Thailand’s transition to zero-emission energy as well as potential cooperation to enhance capacity-building on clean energy under the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Technology (FIRST).
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand
Highlights
The United States will help Thailand develop nuclear power through a new class of small reactors, part of a programme aimed at fighting climate change, US Vice President Kamala Harris announced on a visit Saturday.
The White House said it would offer technical assistance to the country to deploy the developing technology of small modular reactors, which are factory-built and portable.
A White House statement said that US experts would work with Thailand on deploying the reactors, which will have the “highest standards of safety, security and nonproliferation” and boast a smaller land footprint than alternatives.
Bangkok Post
