The National Energy Policy Committee (NEPC), chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Mr. Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, has decided to suspend new renewable energy purchases under the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) program for 2025-2033. This follows public concerns about procedural accuracy in energy procurement processes. The decision affects 3,668.5 MW of planned clean energy generation, including fuel-free and industrial waste-based power sources.

The NEPC has tasked its secretariat with consulting legal authorities and forming a fact-finding committee to ensure compliance and transparency. Additionally, related agencies have been informed to pause contract signings with electricity providers until the review is complete.

Key Meeting Resolutions

  1. Extended Energy Purchases:

    • Approval for purchasing additional electricity from existing small (SPP) and very small (VSPP) producers without new investments, under 2-year non-firm contracts until 2026. Purchase rates include:
      • Fuel-based generation (e.g., biomass, biogas, waste): THB 2.20/kWh.
      • Fuel-free generation (solar, wind): THB 1.00/kWh for solar and THB 0.50/kWh for wind.
    • Contracts can be terminated if grid capacity constraints arise.

    These measures aim to increase renewable energy contributions, support farmers, and reduce LNG imports, easing electricity costs.

  2. Short-term Extension for Theun Hinboun Project:
    • An additional 20 MW will be procured from the Theun Hinboun project in Laos from January to December 2028. This extension reduces production costs and dependence on volatile LNG prices.
  3. Extension for Nam Phong Power Plant Operations:
    • The Nam Phong combined-cycle power plant in Northeastern Thailand will operate for an additional year (2028) to leverage its low-cost generation and reduce LNG imports.
  4. Energy Conservation Fund Allocation:
    • Guidelines and priorities for the 2024 budget allocation from the Energy Conservation Fund were approved to promote sustainable energy initiatives.

The policy changes reflect efforts to balance renewable energy goals with national economic and energy security considerations.