Bangkok: The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) is advancing Khon Kaen University's "KKUVOLT" battery product into the commercial market, while simultaneously nurturing manpower to bolster the future energy sector. Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced the government's initiative to promote Thai research and innovation for practical applications. The Ministry aims to bridge the knowledge from universities with business and industrial sectors to develop technologies and products that align with market demands, while also preparing human resources for emerging industries.
According to Thai News Agency, a prominent example is KKUVOLT at Khon Kaen University, which has accumulated expertise in battery materials for over a decade before transitioning from laboratory research to the production and sale of tangible products. These offerings include INR 18650 battery cells, mini power banks, conversion kits, batteries for electric motorcycles and golf carts, and custom-made batteries for solar power systems and specialized equipment.
KKUVOLT has now expanded into Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), offering wall-mounted, mobile, and expandable models that cater to households, small businesses, and high-demand energy systems. They have also developed Solar and BESS Solutions for homes, aimed at reducing electricity bills, enhancing energy security, and promoting the long-term use of clean energy.
An important development is the advancement of sodium-ion batteries, or "salt batteries," which hold potential for energy storage systems and electric vehicles, offering more technological options and decreasing dependence on foreign technology.
Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, visited Khon Kaen province to inspect the KKUVOLT battery and modern energy factory. He also reviewed technological developments and explored partnerships with the private sector to expedite the transfer of knowledge from universities to the marketplace.
Khon Kaen University is not only focusing on technology development but also on human resource development by launching a program in Battery and New Energy. This initiative aims to produce specialized personnel with the skills required to meet the demands of the future energy industry.
The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office emphasized that the support for KKUVOLT signifies the government and MHESI's commitment to translating research "from the lab to the market," resulting in tangible outcomes. These include clean energy alternatives, business technologies, consumer products, and the creation of new jobs and skills for Thais, laying the groundwork for the growth of the country's new energy industry based on Thai knowledge and innovation.