Bangkok: The Department of Energy Business is actively inspecting the safety standards of LNG and LPG facilities and service stations as part of its commitment to upgrade regulatory standards to international levels. This initiative is crucial for supporting the expansion of the industrial and transportation sectors, building confidence in safety, and enhancing national energy security.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Energy, through the Department of Energy Business, recently inspected facilities in Ratchaburi province. Key officials including Mr. Chatchai Khunlohit, Deputy Director-General of the Department, Ms. Busayanat Nilawong, Director of the Natural Gas Business Safety Division, and Mr. Nattapong Piyawanno, Director of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Business Safety Division, visited several gas-related establishments. These included Indorama Holdings Public Company Limited, Ratchaburi Glass Industry Public Company Limited, and the PTT Public Company Limited's Ratchaburi LNG service station.
Mr. Chatchai explained that this site visit aligns with the policy of Mr. Sarawut Kaewtathip, Director-General of the Department of Energy Business, to enhance supervision under the Fuel Control Act. This initiative aims to integrate the expansion of LNG and LPG use with international standards, thereby fostering public, business, and investor confidence, which is essential for energy security and national economic growth.
The use of LNG is increasing in the industrial sector for boilers, furnaces, and smelters, and in transportation, especially for large trucks and tractor-trailers. The Department has issued licenses for 139 LNG usage sites and 5 LNG refueling stations across 4 provinces, with plans for 11 more stations to support major transportation routes, highlighting the growth in clean fuel usage.
In terms of LPG regulation, the Department is working with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to enhance law enforcement and educate businesses and the public on compliance. This is particularly crucial for Type 1 LPG locations, which, although not requiring a business license, must adhere to safety regulations. Plans are underway to extend this cooperation nationwide.
Ratchaburi province is pivotal for natural gas distribution in Thailand, serving as a central hub for the industrial sector and the western region, thus playing a significant role in energy stability and security.
Mr. Chatchai emphasized the importance of maintaining safety standards at every stage to ensure business continuity, foster confidence, support energy security, and enhance competitiveness. This aligns with the Ministry of Energy's policy to drive the sustainable use of clean energy.