In a major move towards creating a clean-energy city and restarting the economy with electric vehicles (EV), Bang Sue Origin Power Station and Chatuchak Substation officially commenced operation on 21 June 2021.
A collaboration between the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), and State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the opening ceremony was presided over by senior representatives of each entity, namely, MEA Governor Mr. Kirapat Jiamset, EGAT Governor Mr. Boonyanit Wongrukmit, and SRT Deputy Governor, Administration, Mr. Awirut Thongnest.
The purpose of Bang Sue Origin Power Station and Chatuchak Substation is mainly to ensure smooth electric transmission for Bang Sue Grand Station and Commuter Train System Project (Red Line). The establishment will also accommodate usage by other EVs in Bangkok and perimeter areas.
“Bang Sue origin power station follows the plan to support electricity consumption of up to 1,800 MVA, enough to supply Bang Sue Grand Station and Commuter Train System Project (Red Line),” the MEA Governor explained. “SCADA electricity system is installed to ensure efficient distribution and transmission, along with backup power system supported by MEA’s power stations nearby in case of any emergency.”
Currently providing electricity for all Skytrain stations, MEA is pushing the use of EVs for commuters’ convenience as well as to improve the city’s pollution record. EV smart charging stations, initially introduced in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakarn provinces, include providing charging analysis and updates via the MEA EV Application.
“This eco-friendly co-operation, covering Bang Sue-Rangsit section and Bang Sue-Taling Chan Section, places Thailand among the top ASEAN countries for rail transport, and helps the country’s economic restart,” summarised the EGAT Governor.
The Chatuchak Substation operates as a Gas Insulated Substation (GIS). Its high-voltage transmission line of 230 kV connects with other High Voltage Electricity Stations in Lat Phrao, Chaeng Watthana, and North Bangkok areas, enables four circuit operation. Its power pole, specially designed for space efficiency, allows electric transmission of up to 2,400 MW, equivalent to three power plants combined.
“This will reinforce the ‘Lor-Rang-Rue’ (Wheel-Rail-Ship) project for green and convenient transportation system for all,” the EGAT Governor added.
“The establishment of Bang Sue Grand Station will place Thailand among the top ASEAN countries for electrically-operated transportation, especially with the Red line system that allows direct routes and transferring channels in and out of Bangkok,” emphasised the SRT Deputy Governor, Administration.
The station will open for a trial period in July 2021, with full operation by the end of this year. Bang Sue Grand Station and the Red line are expected to respectively see over 624,000 and 463,000 travellers a day, constituting a significant enhancement in the city’s mass transit capacity and reduction in pollution.