Bangkok: The government has announced plans to bolster community solar power initiatives by offering financial support to households through a subsidy of 10,000 baht for solar installation costs, targeting 400,000 homes.
According to Thai News Agency, the government is advancing its "Solar for the People" project, encouraging homeowners to install rooftop solar panels. This initiative aims to reduce household electricity expenses and permit the sale of excess electricity back to the grid. It represents a significant step towards promoting clean energy and enabling public participation.
The National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) has recently agreed to purchase 500 megawatts of electricity, allowing participants to sell up to 5 kilowatts per meter at a fixed rate of 2.20 baht per unit for a duration of 10 years. Participants should be able to connect to the grid by 2027.
To simplify the process for participants, the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), are setting up a One-Stop Service. This will facilitate permit acquisition and installation procedures, with further details on application submissions and requirements to be announced soon.
Moreover, the Ministry of Interior is considering a subsidy initiative to support solar rooftop installations, providing 10,000 baht per household for installation or down payments. The project is aimed at 400,000 households, intending to lower initial costs and boost public access to renewable energy. Funding is expected to be sourced from a 400 billion baht loan decree designed to propel the nation's energy transition.
The electricity authority will be tasked with assessing the readiness of participants, including evaluating electrical systems, safety, and connection suitability, to ensure compliance with standards and power system stability.
Ms. Rachada emphasized that the government encourages citizens to become active contributors to clean energy production. Households can utilize their rooftops not only to cut expenses but also to earn from surplus electricity sales, thereby decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing long-term energy security and environmental quality.
Individuals interested in participating are advised to stay tuned for the announcement of application details from the MEA or PEA in their respective regions to prepare necessary documentation and ensure readiness for the project.