Thailand’s National Energy Policy Council has approved a major boost to the annual quota for public solar power projects, raising it from 100 MW to 400 MW. This policy aims to reduce consumer electricity costs by 8% and help the nation achieve carbon neutrality by 2065.
Increased Quota for Thailand Solar Power Projects
In a significant update to its national energy policy, Thailand’s National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) has officially quadrupled the annual quota for public solar power projects from 100 megawatts (MW) to 400 MW. This strategic move is a cornerstone of the country’s plan to accelerate its renewable energy transition and deliver lower electricity costs.
According to Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, the initiative is projected to lower electricity bills by at least 8%. This reduction is expected to save consumers around 20 satang per unit, providing substantial financial relief.
The policy change also aligns with Thailand’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2065, with solar power set to play a central role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To explore more about Thailand’s solar initiatives, visit Thailand Solar News Archives.
Expanding Thailand Solar Power and Renewable Energy Sources
To encourage wider adoption of renewable energy, the government is also quadrupling the quota for solar power generation on public rooftops from 50 MW to 200 MW. An additional 50 MW is dedicated to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to spur clean energy use in the capital.
Beyond solar, the NEPC has introduced a new policy promoting green hydrogen. The framework allows companies generating electricity from green hydrogen to sell surplus power back to state authorities, supported by a newly approved 1,000 MW quota for green hydrogen energy production.
The council has also approved an additional 1,500 MW quota for renewable energy generation targeting the industrial sector. This allocation includes 1,000 MW for rooftop solar and 500 MW for ground-mounted solar panels. For detailed insights into Thailand’s solar panel manufacturing, visit Thailand Solar Panel Manufacturing Report.
Government Support for Thailand Solar Power and Clean Energy
To further encourage this transition, the government has approved significant financial support for key projects. This includes a 1.06 billion baht payment to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) for a pilot carbon capture and storage project.
Additionally, 1.16 billion baht from the Energy Conservation Fund has been allocated for 19 renewable energy projects designed to promote clean energy use and improve national energy efficiency.
For consumers and businesses, the NEPC is ensuring stability by maintaining the current electricity price structure. The rate will remain at 3.98 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) from January 1 to April 30, 2024, a crucial measure as the country invests in its renewable energy infrastructure.
These increased solar quotas and new policies for green hydrogen underscore Thailand’s firm commitment to building a sustainable energy future.
