Thailand Accelerates Green Tech Innovation Through Startup Support
The Thai government is intensifying its efforts in green technology by selecting four promising sustainability-focused startups through its National Innovation Agency (NIA). These companies specialize in AI, energy, and carbon management, positioning them as key players with global potential.
The NIA aims to foster 1-2 homegrown unicorns within the next three years that can compete internationally. The four selected startups are:
- Vekin, developer of AI-powered carbon auditing tools
- AltoTech.AI, provider of smart energy management systems
- MUI Robotics, focused on industrial robotics and automation
- Ion Energy, solar energy solution provider for residential and industrial use
Vekin combines AI and blockchain to help companies measure sustainability performance through deep tech, focusing on energy and carbon asset management. Its flagship product, the AI Carbon Auditor, received the 2023 Geneva Invention Award and holds patents in over 30 countries. Vekin’s CTO, Ekasit Phermphoonphiphat, stated that their technology lowers costs and enables clients to strategically plan for net-zero targets. Primary clients include ESG-compliant listed companies, with current targeting of exporters to European markets.
AltoTech.AI focuses on the building sector with a full-suite solution—from carbon footprint assessment to action planning, efficiency upgrades, carbon credit purchasing, and reporting. Clients span hotels, retail, education, healthcare, and factories. The company reports having helped clients reduce electricity consumption by a total of 5.8 GWh, equivalent to planting 115,000 trees. Successful case studies exist in Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. AltoTech.AI was named one of Asia-Pacific’s Top 100 Startups by e27 in 2024 and is supported by Microsoft and Nvidia.
MUI Robotics uses sensors to detect and analyze odors and pollutants, with AI enhancing monitoring and diagnostics. Solutions aim to protect ecosystems and human health, applied in sectors like food and agriculture. Notable clients include Betagro and Charoen Pokphand.
Ion Energy, a subsidiary of Bangkok Cable Group, is Thailand’s first solar power company. It enables energy transition through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and offers an app for real-time monitoring of solar farm operations. Projects exist in over 20 cities worldwide, with a total installation capacity of 110 MWp.
With growing global interest in sustainability and climate solutions, both consumers and investors are paying closer attention to green technologies. According to Research and Markets, the green tech and sustainability market is expected to grow from US$25.5 billion in 2025 to US$73.9 billion by 2030.
As Thailand’s startup development agency, the NIA provides funding and industry expertise to support Thai startups in expanding internationally. NIA Executive Director Krithpaka Boonfueng emphasized that current sustainability momentum offers strong growth opportunities. The agency’s goal is to cultivate 1-2 unicorns within three years.
