Bangkok: Ekanat Promphan, the Minister of Energy, presented a comprehensive vision for Thailand's energy transition, emphasizing the need for clean energy initiatives that include 1 million solar power installations and the liberalization of Direct Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) during his keynote address at the GCNT EXPO 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekanat highlighted the urgency for Thailand to accelerate its energy transition. This initiative is aimed at tackling the climate crisis and reducing dependency on fuel imports, which pose significant geopolitical risks. He advocated for an inclusive approach that ensures both citizens and businesses can actively participate and benefit from the shift to clean electricity.
The Thai government is committed to promoting biofuels-biodiesel and ethanol-derived from domestic agricultural products like sugarcane, cassava, and palm oil. This strategy is intended to decrease crude oil imports and mitigate the trade deficit, while also providing economic opportunities for Thai farmers by positioning them as producers of ethanol and biodiesel for gasoline blends.
In electricity generation, the National Power Development Plan (PDP) targets increasing the share of clean energy to over 60%. The plan includes a project to equip 1 million households with 5-kilowatt solar power plants. The government will initially finance these installations, purchasing the produced electricity, and once the investment is recouped, households will gain ownership of the power plants.
Additionally, the Ministry of Energy plans to lift existing restrictions for businesses by modifying the criteria for direct clean electricity purchase agreements. This will enable operators of varying sizes to engage in the trade of clean electricity, breaking the monopoly of a single buyer. This policy change is designed to align with global environmental trade conditions, facilitate the development of virtual power plants, and make clean electricity a central component of the Thai economy, empowering all citizens to become energy producers.