5. Strategic plan for renewable energy development in Thailand
The framework of national energy strategy, which includes renewable energy
development, has been approved in principle by the cabinet resolution of 2 September
2003. The objective of the renewable energy development is aimed to replace fossil fuel.
Thailand, by the Ministry of Energy, has set the target to increase the share of renewable
primary energy from 0.5% (265 ktoe) in 2002 to 8% (6540 ktoe) by the year 2011.
According to the national strategic plan, about 1380 MW of new power capacity during
the next 8 years will come from several renewable energy sources. The major sources are
biomass (1055.7 MW) and biogas (28.8 MW). The following measures will be
implemented [17].
1. Establish the regulation or legal enforcement on the Renewable Portfolio Standard
(RPS) for new power plants that 5% of their generation capacity must be generated by
renewable energy such as solar, wind or biomass.
2. Devise incentive measures encouraging purchase of power generated by renewable
energy, for example, provision of tax credit, privilege, and subsidies from the Energy
Conservation Promotion Fund.
3. Support research and development on renewable energy of which Thailand has high
potential, such as solar, micro-hydropower, wind and biomass (agricultural wastes and
municipal wastes).
4. Encourage participation and partnership of the local communities in renewable energy-fueled
power plants.