GUNKUL and Murata Electronics Sign Direct PPA Agreement, Advancing Thailand's Industrial Clean Energy Transition
- 7 MW Solar Farm Worth THB 260 Million to Deliver Clean Power from Q1 2026
GUNKUL (Gunkul Engineering Public Company Limited) has reached a landmark Direct Power Purchase Agreement (Direct PPA) with Murata Electronics (Thailand), a leading Japanese electronic components manufacturer, for a 7,086.20 kW ground-mounted solar farm valued at THB 260 million. The facility is scheduled to begin commercial power delivery in Q1 2026, serving as a critical milestone in Murata's journey toward 100% renewable energy consumption (RE100) by 2035.
A Clean Energy Partnership Built on Five Projects and Decades of Trust
GUNKUL and Murata's collaboration in solar energy began in 2019, and this solar farm marks the fifth joint project between the two companies. Combined with previous installations, GUNKUL has now developed a total of 17,150.48 kW of clean energy capacity for Murata across industrial zones in Northern Thailand.
This long-standing partnership reflects GUNKUL's positioning as a "comprehensive green energy and infrastructure partner for Asia" — capable of designing, financing, and managing large-scale renewable energy projects for world-class industrial clients.
Why Direct PPA Is a Game Changer for Thai Industry
The Thai government's opening of Direct PPA mechanisms provides manufacturers and industrial operators with a direct route to procure clean electricity from renewable energy producers — bypassing traditional utility channels. This unlocks greater flexibility, cost predictability, and verifiable carbon reductions.
Key benefits of Direct PPA for businesses:
- Measurable carbon reduction aligned with Scope 2 emission targets
- Stable, long-term energy pricing independent of grid tariff volatility
- Concrete ESG and Net Zero progress that satisfies global supply chain requirements
- RE100 compliance to maintain competitiveness with international buyers and partners
Murata's Accelerated Sustainability Roadmap
Murata Electronics (Thailand) was the first Japanese company to invest in Lamphun Province 36 years ago and has since grown into a leading industrial force in Northern Thailand. Recognizing the urgency of the global climate crisis, Murata has accelerated its 100% renewable energy target to 2035 — a full 15 years ahead of many industry peers — with a further commitment to achieving full supply chain carbon neutrality by 2050.
This investment sends a clear signal: the transition to clean energy is no longer optional — it is a business imperative. Thailand is demonstrating that it is not only a competitive manufacturing base, but a country capable of supporting the clean energy infrastructure that global corporations need to meet their sustainability commitments.
GUNKUL's Vision: 2,000 MW of Green Energy by 2027
With over 43 years in the energy industry, GUNKUL is executing an ambitious growth roadmap announced in March 2025, targeting a cumulative 2,000 MW of green energy capacity by 2027. Alongside capacity growth, GUNKUL is expanding its infrastructure solutions to enhance the global competitiveness of Thailand's industrial sector.
The successful closure of this project with Murata underscores GUNKUL's role as a full-service green energy solutions provider — from project development and investment to Direct PPA structuring and long-term asset management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Direct PPA (Direct Power Purchase Agreement)?
A: A Direct PPA is a contract that allows businesses to purchase electricity directly from a renewable energy producer, bypassing traditional utility distribution. It provides companies with clean, competitively priced power while generating verifiable carbon reduction records that count toward RE100 and Net Zero targets.
Q: Why does RE100 matter for my business?
A: RE100 — a commitment to sourcing 100% of electricity from renewables — is increasingly required by global supply chains. Companies without a credible renewable energy plan risk losing business from partners and buyers who mandate sustainability standards across their supplier networks.
Q: What services does GUNKUL provide for Direct PPA?
A: GUNKUL offers end-to-end solutions: feasibility assessment, system design and installation, Direct PPA contract structuring, and full operations & maintenance throughout the project lifecycle.
Q: How large is GUNKUL's renewable energy portfolio in Thailand?
A: GUNKUL has been active in Thailand's energy sector for over 43 years and is targeting 2,000 MW of cumulative green energy capacity by 2027, with projects spanning solar, wind, and energy infrastructure across the country.
