BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Energy Minister Atthapol Rerkpiboon announced that the government will maintain stable prices for oil and cooking gas over the next four months. Starting Saturday, October 4, the price of diesel will drop by 50 satang per liter, and gasoline prices will be reduced by the same amount.
The decision comes from the Oil Fund Management Committee (OFMC), which approved the reduction in diesel and requested cooperation from oil companies to lower gasoline prices. Minister Atthapol emphasized that these measures aim to ease the burden on citizens during the approaching winter season, when global energy prices are high. Diesel prices will be capped at no more than 32 baht per liter.
Regarding electricity rates for the first period of 2026 (January–April), Minister Atthapol said there are two options: either maintain the current rates or reduce them, with a firm commitment that prices will not rise above current levels.
The Oil Fund’s financial status has improved, with a deficit now at 17.838 billion baht, down from over 100 billion baht previously. This allows for better management of energy prices and support for citizens in line with government economic policies.
The Energy Minister also highlighted Thailand’s Net Zero 2050 ambitions, which Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has accelerated. The government plans to update the Power Development Plan (PDP) to align with the new target. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology will be part of the plan, although it will require significant time and space, including offshore areas, and coordination with multiple ministries.
Under the Quick Big Win energy strategy, community solar farms totaling 1,500 megawatts are being developed. Energy produced will first be sold to local communities at below-market prices, with surplus electricity fed into the national grid. A portion of revenues will be shared with participating communities. Guidelines for this program are expected to be approved by the National Energy Policy Committee within four months.
Minister Atthapol reassured the public that the government is actively managing energy policies to prevent price spikes, provide affordable energy, and support communities while advancing sustainability goals. (TNA)
