On 30 April 2024, NXPO and the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) hosted an MOU signing ceremony, marking a collaboration on climate action through the Saraburi Sandbox project. The signing was led by NXPO President Dr. Kitipong Promwong and TCMA Chairman Dr. Chana Poomee.
Dr. Kitipong Promwong stated that as the national designated entity (NDE) for the technology mechanism of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and through participation in the annual Conference of the Parties (COP), NXPO recognized the significance of technology and innovation in achieving the net zero emissions goal. To enhance Thailand’s innovation capacity, NXPO initiated the Saraburi Sandbox project, aiming to empower Thailand to develop and implement climate technology through domestic and international collaborations. As Saraburi is a hub for Thailand’s cement industry, technologies are essential to facilitate the net zero transition. Under this MOU, NXPO will finance the feasibility study of CO2-to-methanol technology as its first undertaking.
Dr. Chana Poomee noted that this MOU marks a significant step towards transforming Saraburi into a low-carbon city. Technology and innovation, supported by domestic and international networks, will be exploited to facilitate the energy transition of the cement industry and achieve Thailand’s 2050 net zero cement and concrete target. The first project under this MOU will explore the potential of CO2-to-methanol technology, examining various aspects such as the value chain, demand and supply, regulations and constraints. The project will also investigate options for implementing the technology in Saraburi with international funding. This initiative will significantly drive green cement production in Saraburi, expecting to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 12 million tons of CO2 per year.
