Ion Energy selected as a key green tech startup backed by the Thai Government. (Photo: Ion Energy)
The Thai government is ramping up 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, and are seen as key players with potential to thrive globally. The NIA aims to foster 1–2 homegrown unicorns within the next three years that can compete on the international stage.
AI meets net zero: Thailand nurtures green startups
The four selected startups are:
- Vekin, a developer of AI-powered carbon auditing tools
- AltoTech.AI, a smart energy management systems provider
- MUI Robotics, focused on industrial robotics and automation
- Ion Energy, a solar energy solution provider for residential and industrial use
According to its official site, Vekin combines AI and blockchain to help companies measure sustainability performance through deep tech, with a focus 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 compared to traditional carbon audit services, Vekin’s technology lowers costs and enables clients to strategically plan for net-zero targets. Its primary clients are ESG-compliant listed companies, and it is now targeting exporters to European markets.
AltoTech.AI, meanwhile, focuses on the building sector with a full-suite solution—from carbon footprint assessment to action planning, efficiency upgrades, carbon credit purchasing, and reporting. Its clientele spans hotels, retail, education, healthcare, and factories.
The company reports have helped clients reduce electricity consumption by a total of 5.8 GWh, equivalent to planting 115,000 trees. It has successful case studies in Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. AltoTech.AI was also named one of Asia-Pacific's Top 100 Startups by e27 in 2024 and is supported by Microsoft and Nvidia.
AltoTech.AI focuses on the building sector, with clients in hospitality, retail, education, healthcare, and manufacturing. (Image: AltoTech.AI)
Sensor, solar innovators gain ground in global markets
MUI Robotics uses sensors to detect and analyze odors and pollutants, with AI enhancing monitoring and diagnostics. Its solutions are aimed at protecting ecosystems and human health and are 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. The company has projects 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 firm 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 the country’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 the current momentum in sustainability offers a strong growth opportunity. The agency’s goal is to cultivate 1–2 unicorns within three years.
Source: Bangkok Post