Research needed to cut expenditure on imported energy, says PM Prayut
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The proportion of Thailand's gross domestic product allocated for energy imports must be reduced, according to the prime minister, but this should be done through practical research.
Speaking at the “Thailand Energy Awards”, General Prayut Chan-o-cha said the country continued to face difficulties, particularly in the energy sector, which affects the costs of production.
He said energy-policy restructuring might take some time to gain wide acceptance, but its goals of stability and sustainability might be achieved more quickly if everyone helps preserve energy.
At present, energy sources worth about Bt1.4 billion or 1.2 per cent of GDP are imported annually, and more usage of alternative energy could help lower that figure, he said.
Prayut insisted that his regime would not give its approval for projects that would increase the burden on business operators and investors, but only areas that enhance energy stability.
The government will undertake its duties with fairness, he said, urging against the use of the courts to wage battles that could result in damage to the nation and delay its progress. Such disputes may need to be discussed and the antagonists to take a step back, he added.
He urged energy-related agencies to take the 10-year Energy Development Plan into consideration for mutual benefits that balance the needs of businesses and people.
Prayut also stressed the need for streamlining approvals for local and foreign investment. However, there are no amendments in the works for the Investment Promotion Act, he said, explaining that this was only an idea and insisting he had no policy on this issue.
He said the state budget could be used to encourage energy-related innovations that help households lower their costs, but research should follow the government’s need to benefit the country.
He added that if possible, the carbon-credit idea should be considered, given the country’s forest areas.
