Community power plants supported
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Energy Minister Arak Chonlatanon sets sight on supporting the establishment of more community power plants, in line with the new alternative energy development plan.
Under the plan, alternative energy will account for 25 per cent of total consumption within 10 years.
Arak said that the small power plants will be powered by locally-sourced fuels and owned by farmers and communities. Aside from generating income for the communities, these would also reduce Thailand's dependence on fossil fuels and carbon emission.
Initially, four community power plants are in the pipeline, including a 1-megawatt plant in Huay Luang community in Udon Thani. The plant, to be owned 20 per cent by private investors and 80 per cent by the community, will require an investment of Bt60-Bt70 million.
