2024-12-19
Thailand is taking big steps towards a greener future through new investments in sustainable energy. According to the country's Ministry of Energy, several projects are planned in the northeastern region, where the focus is on developing solar and wind power plants.
Minister of Energy Siri Jirapongphan recently underlined the importance of reducing the country's dependence on fossil fuels. He emphasized that these new investments are part of Thailand's long-term energy strategy, which aims to increase the share of renewable energy to 30% of the total energy mix by 2030.
The projects in northeastern Thailand, especially in provinces such as Nakhon Ratchasima and Khon Kaen, includes both new solar parks and wind turbines. These areas have been identified as particularly suitable due to their favorable weather conditions and geographical conditions.
"We must not only think about our own energy security, but also about how we can contribute to sustainable development globally," said Minister Siri at a press conference in Bangkok.
The Thai government hopes that these investments will not only reduce energy costs in the long term, but also create thousands of new jobs. International investors have already shown interest in supporting the country's development in the green energy sector.
According to information from The Swedish Energy Agency Thailand currently consumes about 200 gigawatt hours of energy per year, of which about 000% comes from renewable sources. With the new projects, the share of renewable energy is expected to increase sharply in the coming decade.
Facts about Thailand's energy sector:
- Total energy consumption: In 2022, Thailand's total energy consumption amounted to approximately 128 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe).
- Energy mix:
- Oil: 46%
- Natural gas: 23%
- Biomass: 17%
- Coal and lignite: 11%
- Renewable energy: About 19% of total energy consumption in 2021. WorldData
- Energy production:
- Thailand is a significant producer of natural gas, crude oil and coal, with production facilities spread across the country. The report of Statista
- Energy consumption per capita:
- Energy consumption per capita: 1,8 tonnes of oil equivalent (toe) in 2022.
- Electricity consumption per capita: 2 kWh in 740.
- Energy policy:
- Thailand aims to reduce its dependence on natural gas and increase the share of renewable energy to strengthen energy security. The International Energy Building
- Electricity production:
- By 2023, 84% of Thailand's electricity generation came from fossil fuels, mainly natural gas (68%). Ember Energy
- Energy prices:
- Energy prices in Thailand are affected by global market prices and the country's energy policy. The transition to renewable energy is expected to affect energy prices in the long term, but specific forecasts vary depending on various factors.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: geralt, Pixabay, original image