Bangkok: Ekanat has announced a revision in electricity pricing, highlighting that data centers may incur higher costs due to their significant electricity consumption and reliance on expensive imported gas for electricity generation. Mr. Ekanat Promphan, the Minister of Energy, outlined the guidelines for reforming the electricity tariff structure, indicating potential changes for both residential and commercial users.

According to Thai News Agency, the new electricity rates are currently undergoing a public consultation process with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) as the adjustments will impact both the public and electricity authorities. The government aims to reduce electricity costs for the public in the future. The current structure, which charges higher rates for higher electricity consumption, may be reviewed. A notable adjustment involves the reclassification of electricity users, particularly Category 9, or data centers. Due to their high electricity usage, which involves costly imported gas, data centers will face higher rates than other groups. These increased rates are intended to reflect actual costs and could surpass residential rates, with the difference helping to subsidize and alleviate the electricity burden on the public and domestic industries.

In terms of clean energy initiatives, the government intends to promote the installation of rooftop solar panels and expedite the process of purchasing excess electricity from the public by June. The government will provide financial support, not as free handouts, but through assistance with down payments or reduced interest rates via state banks. This initiative aims to encourage the installation of solar panels and the adoption of electric vehicles, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the country's energy structure.