On January 17, 2024, OAP represented by Ms. Pennapa Kanchana, Deputy Secretary-General acting on behalf of the OAP Secretary-General, collaborated with the Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), represented by Dr. Phunphat Leesombatpaiboon, ERC Secretary-General. The two organizations formally delivered the Agreement on the Regulation of Nuclear Facilities Using Nuclear Reactors for Power Generation between the Nuclear Energy for Peace Committee and the Energy Regulatory Commission, B.E. 2567 (2024), during a ceremony held in front of Meeting Room 11 on the 19th floor of the ERC Office, Chamchuri Square Building, Phaya Thai Road.
Both committees approved and signed the agreement, ensuring its legal validity. This agreement was established under the Nuclear Energy for Peace Act, B.E. 2559 (2016), which governs the use of nuclear and radiation technologies. Section 49, Paragraph 1 of the Act mandates that the Nuclear Energy for Peace Committee and the Energy Regulatory Commission jointly determine the criteria, procedures, and conditions for regulating nuclear facilities. Additionally, the Act on Rules for Drafting Laws and Evaluating Legal Effectiveness, B.E. 2562 (2019), Section 22, Paragraph 2, in conjunction with Section 39(1), specifies that regulations must facilitate public compliance and ensure the public receives the benefits entitled under the law.
The drafting of this agreement involved extensive discussions between the two agencies, culminating in its publication in the Royal Gazette on November 21, 2024. The primary objective of the agreement is to streamline the licensing process for individuals or entities seeking permits for nuclear facilities, reducing unnecessary burdens on the public. The agreement also provides clear delineation of responsibilities and authorities between the two agencies, eliminating potential confusion among stakeholders.
