Bangkok: The regulations for controlling the "data center business" are anticipated to be finalized and come into effect by mid-October, according to Mr. Danucha Pichayanant, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). The progression of these regulations was discussed as part of his role as a member and secretary of the Data Center Business Policy Committee.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Danucha shared that various agencies have submitted essential data, including information on current service providers, criteria for classifying data center sizes, and average figures related to electricity and water usage. These submissions are crucial for establishing criteria to regulate the data center business effectively.
In terms of electricity regulations, the Ministry of Energy is tasked with defining the criteria for controlling electricity usage specifically for data centers. While electricity rates are already in place for the data center sector, guidelines are being developed to manage the facility sizes. Notably, facilities classified under industrial criteria must be situated in designated industrial estates to prevent adverse impacts on residential areas. It is proposed that hyperscale power centers should meet a power consumption threshold of 100 megawatts or more, though the board must still determine the exact requirements.
Mr. Danucha further explained the timeline for implementing these regulations. Following a deadline for conclusions within one month, which started with a meeting on September 4th, detailed information and requirements for data centers will be finalized. This will lead to the drafting of a specific policy for data centers, followed by the establishment of review mechanisms to ensure cohesion. The agency responsible for spearheading this process will be identified subsequently.
Mr. Danucha emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, "It is expected that the data center business control regulations will be effectively implemented no later than mid-October. Everything needs to be in place because many parties are currently waiting for clarity on this matter."