Bangkok: Deputy Minister of Interior visits MEA to deliver policy guidelines for driving the smart electricity system. The Deputy Minister of Interior visited MEA (Metropolitan Electricity Authority) to deliver policy guidelines on driving the smart grid system and leveraging digital innovations to improve the quality of life for urban residents.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Ministers of Interior, Mr. Polpeera Suwannachawi and Mr. Worasit Liengprasit, along with Mr. Athaya Nualyutai, Assistant Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, visited the area to deliver policy guidelines. They were welcomed by Associate Professor Dr. Rangsan Wongsan, Ms. Piang-Or Lauhavilay, Associate Professor Jirapol Sangpho, and Associate Professor Asmdech Wanichinchai, members of the MEA board, along with Mr. Dichawat Chan-ee, Governor of MEA, and other senior executives, at the Watthanawiphas Building, MEA Headquarters, Khlong Toei.
Mr. Phonphir revealed that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, is committed to driving energy policies to concretely improve the quality of life for the people. MEA has consistently and effectively implemented these policies, including projects such as street lighting for safety, promoting the installation of rooftop solar power systems, campaigning for energy conservation, and expanding electric vehicle charging stations. Amidst global changes and the energy crisis impacting lifestyles, clean energy and the use of solar cells are crucial options for adapting to and coping with current challenges.
Regarding alleviating the burden of living costs for the public, Mr. Polpeer stated that he has been in close discussions with the Governor of MEA on the approach of setting the electricity rate at 3 baht for the first 200 units of electricity consumption. Furthermore, to further promote the installation of solar rooftops, he has instructed MEA to integrate cooperation with PEA (Provincial Electricity Authority) to upgrade services to a one-stop service center, in accordance with government policy. This will facilitate the public in a comprehensive manner, from the permit application process to coordinating with financial institutions for loan services.
Furthermore, it was emphasized that MEA should review its service and installation rates for Solar Rooftop systems to ensure appropriateness. Although MEA's service standards are well-regarded and instill confidence in the public regarding quality, reducing prices to be competitive with private sector providers would be a significant incentive to encourage the public to invest more in clean energy. MEA must carefully study the data to prepare information for electricity users, set clear quantitative targets for expanding the number of households installing Solar Rooftop systems each year, and accelerate the promotion and support of clean energy use among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to achieve tangible results.
General Peer added that MEA must prioritize considering the electricity tariff structure for the data center business sector, offering a premium service model. This must be managed prudently and fairly to prevent the increased costs from falling on the public. This should be done alongside the development of technology and energy infrastructure, which is another crucial task, especially accelerating the development of a Smart Metro Grid. A clear action plan and target areas for expansion must be established to efficiently meet the future energy needs of the city.
Furthermore, corporate communication and public relations are crucial in connecting MEA's work with the public. Society must be informed about the organization's roles, responsibilities, and new services and applications developed to facilitate convenience. Therefore, proactive and intensive public relations efforts are necessary to ensure that the public is aware of, understands, and trusts MEA as a leading provider of electricity infrastructure services, committed to serving and supporting the public to the best of its ability.
Mr. Worasit stated that integrating cooperation from all sectors is crucial in addressing the challenges of the global energy crisis that affects the lives of the people. Promoting clean energy technologies, especially solar cell systems, is a key approach to ensure sustainable adaptation. Energy is a fundamental necessity for life, and MEA is ready to be a key mechanism of the government in assisting and alleviating the burden of electricity costs, helping people overcome this crisis while simultaneously ensuring energy security and restoring well-being to Thai society.
Mr. Worasit further added regarding the upgrading of infrastructure to support future lifestyles that MEA has accelerated the expansion of electric vehicle charging station locations to ensure sufficient coverage and meet the continuously increasing demand. In addition, MEA places the highest priority on developing convenient, fast, and accessible public services, providing opportunities for citizens to participate by reporting problems and offering suggestions through modern digital channels such as the MEA Smart Life application. This enables the agency to respond to problems and alleviate concerns, promoting well-being for the public quickly, transparently, and effectively.
On this occasion, the Governor of MEA led the Deputy Minister of Interior to visit an exhibition showcasing energy innovations and key projects that MEA is driving to support metropolitan lifestyles through future smart metro grid technology. This system allows for real-time monitoring and control of the electricity system, coupled with the installation of smart meters to enhance the accuracy of energy management. The exhibition also highlighted progress on underground power cable projects that improve aesthetics and enhance safety, as well as the promotion of clean energy through the installation of solar panels and the expansion of electric vehicle charging stations, which comes with a comprehensive user application.
Furthermore, MEA has introduced the Field Force Management (FFM) system, an intelligent technician management system that enables faster and more accurate resolution of power outages. This has also upgraded customer service to a fully online format through MEA e-Service. In addition, MEA is implementing CSR projects to improve quality of life and support the community economy. These projects leverage the organization's core mission to create jobs and increase income for communities in its service areas, making MEA more than just an electricity provider; it a contributor to building a strong and sustainable society.