7.4.2 100% renewable energy pledge
Metric: Energy and the community
Promote a public pledge toward 100% renewable energy beyond the university
Prince of Songkla University (PSU), through the PSU Electric Vehicle (EV) Center, actively promotes the transition toward clean and renewable energy beyond the university by developing innovative technologies that support sustainable community practices.
One of its flagship initiatives is the creation of Southern Thailand’s first zero-emission electric long-tail boat prototype, designed to promote sustainable tourism and revitalize local waterways, including Khlong-Hae and Khlong U-Tapao. The project reflects PSU’s commitment to expanding the use of renewable energy beyond its campuses and into surrounding communities.
The prototype converts traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) long-tail boats into electric-powered vessels using lithium battery systems mounted on the existing engine platform without structural modification. The electric propulsion system achieved a speed of 20 km/h under real-world testing and demonstrated stable performance, efficient energy management, and compliance with safety and design standards under temperatures of 32–35°C.
This project not only reduces carbon emissions and noise pollution, but also supports the King’s initiative on river restoration and promotes a model of eco-friendly, low-carbon transportation for local tourism industries. By integrating renewable energy innovation into community life, PSU demonstrates a strong public commitment toward achieving 100% renewable energy use, inspiring regional stakeholders to adopt similar sustainable practices.
Through such initiatives, PSU reinforces its role as a leader in renewable energy innovation and knowledge transfer, extending its impact beyond the university and contributing to Thailand’s broader goal of transitioning to a clean energy future.