The New Generation Battery and Energy Factory (kkUVolts), led by Associate Professor Nonglak Meethong, Ph.D., Director of the Factory and faculty member of the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, and an alumna of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), participated in the international academic conference titled “Powering Southeast Asia through 2050: Building a Sustainable and Energy-Resilient ASEAN.” The event was organised by the MIT Management ASEAN Office and attracted over 400 attendees from across Southeast Asia, including executives, policymakers, investors, and experts in energy, climate, and sustainability from government, industry, academia, and non-profit organisations.
During the conference, Associate Professor Nonglak Meethong was invited to join a panel discussion on the topic, “Game Changers for Energy Transition and Resilience.” The session provided an in-depth exchange of perspectives on designing the future energy system for ASEAN, considering climate change, volatility within grid systems, and the imperative of ensuring long-term energy security. Dr. Nonglak emphasised that ASEAN’s energy transition cannot rely solely on a single technology. Instead, it requires designing comprehensive “energy systems” tailored to the local context of each area. Crucially, the role of Energy Storage Systems (ESS) must be recognised not just as supporting technology, but as essential Energy Infrastructure that stabilises clean energy sources and enhances the long-term resilience of power systems.
kkUVolts was also honoured to participate in the MIT Alumni Showcase, where it presented concepts, technologies, and practical applications of batteries and new-generation energy systems that bridge research findings with industrial implementation. This presentation gave attendees from diverse sectors the opportunity to visit the exhibit, exchange ideas, and discuss avenues for collaboration to scale up clean energy projects across the region.
The participation in the MIT ASEAN Conference underscores kkUVolts’ role as a centre of knowledge and innovation in energy, connecting research, human resource development, and real-world application. The factory is actively contributing to ASEAN’s power system goals of achieving sustainability, security, and resilience against future change.
kkUVolts extends its gratitude to the MIT Management ASEAN Office and supporting organisations, including Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited, and all other sponsors who collaboratively promoted the development of expertise and cooperation in regional energy and sustainability.
