What have been some of the most pivotal moments for Innopower?

AT: It has been an incredible journey so far. One of the most remarkable experiences occurred on an ordinary day, during a team meeting when [my team and I] were strategising the company’s financial direction. It was the initial months of my tenure, and as I brainstormed on a whiteboard, a sense of camaraderie filled the room as the team gathered together, offering their valuable insights and ideas on this single task. Witnessing this collaborative mindset left a deep impression, as it reminded me of the incredible potential of Innopower—that we can accomplish anything we set our minds to.

Another moment was when we got our first dollar from the sale of the Renewable Energy Certificate (REC). That moment symbolised the tangible realisation of our vision and the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

What significant impact can Innopower’s partnership with Trirec bring to the cleantech industry?

AT: In scaling innovations, three key elements are crucial for success: Resources, disruptive technology and a test base or visible demand. For our Energy Ignition Fund, we look out for disruptive technology while offering companies the resources and test base opportunities. Innopower can provide valuable test base opportunities for energy technologies because we utilise our assets and those of our shareholders. This will provide a vital foundation for mass decarbonisation efforts in the region, as the energy industry is the main industry that contributes to carbon emissions. Our limited partners also gain priority access to cherry-pick and adopt these technologies.

What are the main features you look for in a company you want to invest in?

AT: Innopower assesses a startup’s potential based on four key areas: 

1. Significance: Does the startup address a compelling pain point? We analyse the relevance and impact of the solution it offers, focusing on the problem it solves and the value it brings to its customers. Understanding the significance of the startup’s value proposition is crucial in determining its potential for success.
2. Scalability: Can the startup scale effectively? We assess its growth prospects and scalability, evaluating the potential to expand its operations, customer base and market reach. A scalable business model is vital for long-term success and sustainable growth.
3. Viability: Will the startup work in terms of viability, resources and intellectual property? We meticulously examine the startup’s viability, considering its financial sustainability, resource allocation and intellectual property protection. This evaluation ensures that the startup has the necessary resources and legal safeguards to thrive in a competitive market.
4. Competitive Advantage: Can we win? We identify the startup’s competitive advantages that differentiate it from existing players in the market. By analysing its unique strengths, such as technology, market positioning or intellectual property, we assess the potential for the startup to gain a competitive edge and succeed in the industry.

By applying this evaluation criteria, we ensure a comprehensive assessment of startups which enables us to identify promising ventures with the potential for long-term success and sustainable growth.

Read more: Tips for young leaders on creating impact, earning respect and striving for success

What has been the biggest challenge for you in building Innopower?

AT: In order to create a sustainable innovation business, we must strike a balance between the need for resources to nurture new ideas and the challenge of long-term sustainability. Many startups fail because they struggle to maintain this equilibrium. That’s why it is crucial to establish quick wins as stepping stones for innovation initiatives. Once these innovations become commercially viable, we can reap the financial benefits and contribute to decarbonisation efforts.

Finding these quick wins posed a significant challenge during our early stages. But we discovered a solution with the Renewable Energy Certificates (REC). With our substantial renewable energy production in Thailand and the growing demand for green energy certification, Innopower is now the country’s largest REC trader. In under six months of our launch, we have offered more than 1.2 million credits, demonstrating our rapid progress.

What does a regular work day look like for you?

AT: I begin my day at 7am and do a quick exercise routine to invigorate my mind and body. Then, I dedicate time to meditation to help foster a calm and focused mind. It is important for me to start the day on a positive note.

By 9am, I am conducting meetings with the various teams at Innopower to stay updated on key milestones and project progress. We also discuss targets for the upcoming week. This ensures effective communication and alignment across the organisation. We are usually done by 11am and I set aside time to address and respond to emails. This ensures timely communication and collaboration with colleagues, partners and stakeholders. This is my time to attend to important messages and prioritise tasks accordingly.

During lunch, I often meet with a valued Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) customer to discuss the projected number of REC needed for the next quarter. This is an opportunity to a strong foster relationship, gather feedback and align strategies for mutual growth. After that, I attend a board meeting, where important decisions and investment approvals are discussed. 

Evenings are reserved for networking and I am usually in bed by around midnight.

Read more: Neurum Health’s Megan Lam on founder wellbeing, discriminatory investors and blanket burritos

Is work-life balance impossible for entrepreneurs?

AT: I firmly believe in the power of work-life integration. At Innopower, we have intentionally designed our company culture to foster collaboration and embrace flexibility. By prioritising these values, we have created an environment where our team members genuinely care for and support each other. To illustrate this point, I often draw parallels with the game of soccer. The best player is not necessarily the one who scores the most goals or defends the most skillfully. Instead, it is the player who shows up for their teammates when they are needed the most. This teamwork and camaraderie are the essence of our culture at Innopower. 

We also recognise that flexibility is a crucial ingredient for fostering innovation. Our team members have unique circumstances and personal responsibilities outside of work. By providing them with flexibility, we empower them to bring their best selves to the table. As a result of our collaborative and flexible approach, we have received numerous positive feedback from our “Innopowerians”. They express a strong sense of ownership in their work, and feel that the projects they contribute to are their own. They also appreciate the ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritise their own well-being.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self who’s just starting out?

AT: As you embark on your journey towards your dreams, I have this advice: Embrace the power of grit and go confidently towards your aspirations. Believe in yourself, as within you lies the strength to overcome any obstacle.

Embrace failure as a catalyst for growth and let setbacks fuel your determination. Take calculated risks, step out of your comfort zone and adapt to new opportunities. Stay focused on your vision, but remain flexible in your approach. Seek knowledge, celebrate small victories and never stop learning.

You have the power to shape your destiny and create a future filled with purpose and fulfilment. With unwavering belief and the courage to pursue your dreams, you will leave an indelible mark on the world. So go forth and let your journey be a testament to the extraordinary heights that can be reached through unwavering determination and a fearless spirit.

See more honourees from Thailand on the Gen.T List 2023.

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