Support for Clean Energy in Thailand

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) is supporting both elephant health and the ecological balance of the region through the Sustainable Irrigation Project implemented at the National Elephant Conservation Center (NEC) in Thailand.

Elephants, symbols of Thai culture and history, play a vital role in preserving biodiversity and sustaining the country’s tourism economy. Approximately 120 elephants live at the NEC, each requiring daily nourishment amounting to 6–12 percent of their body weight. The herd consumes around 20 tons of grass every day, which is produced by farming families in four surrounding villages. However, water shortages—particularly during the dry season—have reduced feed quality, leading to an increase in gastrointestinal illnesses commonly observed among the elephants.

In cooperation with the NEC and the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), TİKA has also contributed to expanding the Zero Waste Project by enabling clean energy production for local farmers.

The handover ceremony held at the National Elephant Conservation Center was attended by Center Director Dr. Taweepok Angkwanich, TICA Deputy Director Arunee Heim, TİKA representatives, local farmers, and two elephants named PumPong and SingKorn. In his remarks, Dr. Angkwanich provided background information on the project’s history and objectives. TICA Deputy Director Heim emphasized that the project aims to protect the environment through clean energy while increasing the production of essential elephant feed for the NEC’s management. She noted that residents of nearby villages such as Mae Tan Noi, Huai Rian, and Wo Kaeo are now able to utilize clean energy in agriculture. Speaking on behalf of local farmers, Panna Suksai stated that the project has reduced production costs for those cultivating elephant feed and has made organic feed production sustainable.

The solar-powered irrigation systems installed with TİKA’s support ensure clean and sustainable water supply for elephant feed plantations. Pumps operated by solar panels generate environmentally friendly energy while freeing farmers from dependence on costly fossil fuel-powered engines. The project also contributes to the protection of terrestrial ecosystems under Goal 15 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The initiative aims to improve elephant health, reduce medical expenses, and secure year-round income for local farmers. Through this project, TİKA not only supports the conservation of large herbivorous species such as elephants in Thailand, but also presents a sustainable model that empowers local communities and can serve as an example for other natural habitats.