The Thai government is launching an energy-saving program targeting public sector agencies to reduce the country’s overall energy consumption. The initiative, managed by the Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency (DEDE) under the Ministry of Energy, will adopt the energy service company (ESCO) model. This model will support the installation of solar panels and other energy-saving measures through long-term contracts, aiming to save 585 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually.
The program will involve the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), working alongside newly established private ESCOs to provide energy-saving solutions to government agencies. Traditionally, ESCO services were limited to businesses and households due to the challenges of securing long-term contracts with government agencies, whose budgets are reviewed annually. However, under the new plan, ESCOs will assist in installing energy-saving equipment like rooftop solar panels and charge fees based on monthly electricity savings.
This initiative aligns with the Thai government’s broader goals to reduce fossil fuel imports and manage rising electricity prices, which have been exacerbated by geopolitical conflicts and high demand. The government’s 20-Year Energy Efficiency Development Plan aims to cut energy consumption by 20% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels, with a focus on transportation and manufacturing. Additionally, 800 state agencies have been instructed to reduce energy use by 20%.
Thailand is also advancing renewable energy development, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pledging to increase renewable energy’s share to 50% by 2040 and exploring low-carbon nuclear energy in the new Power Development Plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2065.
(Source: Reccessary)
