 | | Thailand-based Gunkul Engineering has seen almost continuous growth since its founding in 1982. It is active not only in Thailand, but in international markets including Laos and Vietnam. Its strong expansion can be attributed to its relations with overseas firms, and its initiatives with new technologies, including solar power.
Following an agreement with the Provincial Electricty Authority (PEA), Gunkul is undertaking a 7.4 megawatt solar power plant project to be constructed in Phetchabun, located in the north of Thailand. The project will be conducted in two phases, with the first phase being a three megawatt installation. Solar Frontier has provided the panels and Schneider Electric will handle the installation.
Solar Frontier’s CIS technology has been chosen over other PV types due to their ability to handle the high ambient heat of the region, where the average annual temperature reaches 28 °C (82 °F). The first phase of the project will begin producing electricity within the year and is scheduled for completion by 2010. Gunkul will soon hold an IPO to help raise the necessary funds for the construction of the second stage, and has secured a contract with PEA for the sale of power generated for the next 25 years. | |
| | "Choosing Solar Frontier for this project is a reflection of our confidence in the superior performance of CIS modules." | Gunkul Dhumrogpiyawut
CEO
Gunkul Engineering |
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| | Site Overview | |
| Location | | Phetchabun, Thailand | | Coordinates | 16.4° N, 101.1° E | | Average Global Irradiance | 1,797 kWh/m2/yr | | Average Temperature | 27.6 °C • 81.6 °F | | Average Precipitation | 1,179 mm • 46.4 in/yr | | |
| | Technical Overview | |
| Date onstream | | December 2010 | | System Capacity | 3.3 MWp (1st phase) | | Panel Type | SC85-EX-B (85 W) | | Number of panels installed | 38,688 | | Panel angle and Orientation | 15°, South 0° | | | | CO2 reduction | (estimate) 2,652 tons / year | | Inverter | GT 500E |
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