Ko Kut, located in Trat Province, lies about 35 km off Thailand’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a large island with both geological and strategic significance, especially in the context of the Overlapping Claims Area (OCA) — a 26,000–27,000 sq. km. disputed maritime zone claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia.

Though the National Energy Plan 2024 currently excludes energy development in the OCA due to lack of a formal agreement, Ko Kut remains central to Thailand’s sovereignty and future energy security.

Thailand’s “Red Line”: Ko Kut as a Sovereignty Marker

Under the 1907 Franco-Siamese Treaty, Ko Kut was recognized as Thai territory. Today, it continues to represent a symbolic “red line” for Thai nationalists. Any energy agreement on the OCA that potentially compromises Ko Kut’s status would be politically explosive.

By excluding the OCA from its current energy plan, Thailand signals its unwavering sovereignty over Ko Kut, despite Cambodia’s push for joint claims.

Strategic Energy Role of Ko Kut

1. Proximity to OCA Energy Reserves

   • OCA is estimated to hold:

     • 10–11 trillion cubic feet of natural gas

     • ~300 million barrels of oil

   • Ko Kut could serve as:

     • A base for joint exploration

     • A hub for pipeline routes or energy infrastructure development

2. Geological Value

   • Fossil evidence indicates Ko Kut was once part of an ancient freshwater basin during the Early Cretaceous (~130 million years ago)

   • Finds include:

     • Fossilized shark teeth, crocodiles, and dinosaur remains (e.g., Spinosaurid and Sauropod species)

     • Links to the Khorat Basin, one of Thailand’s main geological formations

Ko Kut: Energy, Geopolitics, and the Future

While Ko Kut is not directly listed in Thailand’s National Energy Plan 2024 due to OCA-related disputes, its strategic importance remains immense:

• Symbol of national sovereignty

• Scientific value for geology and paleontology

• Gateway for future offshore energy infrastructure, should cooperation with Cambodia move forward

Thailand’s Long-Term Energy Goals

• Increase renewable energy share to 51% by 2037

• Reduce reliance on imported gas

• Invest in:

  • Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

  • Floating solar power

  • New offshore explorations (in the Andaman Sea and OCA)

Ko Kut may well become a linchpin in Thailand’s sustainable and independent energy future, as it bridges scientific heritage, national security, and regional energy strategy.

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