The U.S. Trade and Development Agency announced it has awarded a grant to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) for a feasibility study to support the development of a grid-connected pumped storage hydropower (PSH) plant at Vajiralongkorn Dam in western Thailand.

The PSH plant would serve as a long-duration, high-capacity energy storage option to support increased renewable energy integration and power system reliability in Thailand.

“USTDA has a 30-year history of partnering with EGAT on the development of Thailand’s energy infrastructure priorities. Our support for this project reflects a shared goal of expanding renewable energy integration and reliability and promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” said Enoh T. Ebong, USTDA’s director. “At the same time, this project will create opportunities for U.S. solutions to be deployed in the development of the PSH plant.”

USTDA’s study will assess the technical and economic viability of the proposed PSH plant, including a geotechnical and geological analysis of the project site, PSH plant design, preliminary environmental and social impact assessment, risk assessment, cost and economic analysis and an implementation plan.

“Energy storage systems are an important part of our electrical infrastructure. They are used as a tool to support power system management, reduce fluctuations from renewable energy and support the country’s grid modernization development plan,” said Boonyanit Wongkrumit, EGAT’s governor. “We’re thrilled that USTDA has chosen to support us along our journey and hope for a long and ongoing relationship. With your expertise and experience, EGAT believes that we will work together through our mutual cooperation to accomplish the project with a successful and satisfactory result to secure the stability and reliability of the power system.”

USTDA said the grant highlights how it advances the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework in collaboration with public and private sector partners across the region. USTDA’s grant also advances the goals of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment to support implementation of clean energy infrastructure globally.

USTDA helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority infrastructure projects in emerging economies. USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project preparation and partnership building activities that develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in partner countries.