On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Maejo University's School of Renewable Energy held the opening ceremony for Thailand’s first university-based solar panel production plant. The event was graced by Dr. Watcharin Bunrit, Deputy Director of the Energy Policy and Planning Office, Ministry of Energy, who delivered a special lecture on "National Energy Plan 2024 and the Direction of Renewable Energy Development in Thailand." Professor Dr. Kriangsak Sri-ngernyuang, Vice President of Maejo University, delivered a welcoming address, and Associate Professor Dr. Nigran Homdoung, Dean of the College of Renewable Energy, presented the report. The ceremony was attended by university executives, representatives from the energy sector, and heads of relevant organizations at the School of Renewable Energy, Maejo University.

The solar panel production plant at Maejo University is a model plant and the first of its kind in an educational institution or government agency in Thailand. It produces solar panels tailored to various needs, such as agricultural applications, building decoration, and everyday uses like installing solar panels on greenhouse roofs to support plant growth, save space, reduce costs for farmers, and provide practical experience for students. It also supports research development for students at all levels, leading to advancements in technology application.

Furthermore, the project offers students the opportunity to earn income during their studies by producing solar panels according to specific needs and by creating training courses on solar panel installation and production. This initiative helps generate revenue to maintain and develop the factory's equipment, ensuring sustainable operations and continued technological advancements.

On the same day, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the School of Renewable Energy, Maejo University, and leading companies in the renewable energy sector, including Solar PPM Co., Ltd., Lanna Solar Energy Co., Ltd., and Slarthai Engineering Co., Ltd. The collaboration aims to support academic cooperation and provide opportunities for internship placements for undergraduate students, enhancing employment prospects and fostering research and innovation in solar energy technology. The partnership also aims to bring research innovations to the commercial sector, expanding the impact of research. Solar PPM Co., Ltd. also donated a solar simulator to the School of Renewable Energy for educational and research purposes.

Professor Dr. Kriangsak Sri-ngernyuang, Vice President of Maejo University, stated, "Maejo University is focused on development and creating innovations that benefit the community, local industries, and the nation. Therefore, the opening of this solar panel production plant and the signing of today's collaboration with the private sector is an important step for the university to play a role in advancing energy development and technology for the future."