Bangkok: Citizen-based solar cell registration is set to open this October, allowing individuals who consume minimal electricity to sell back up to 1,000 baht per month to the government.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to install solar cell systems for the public sector. This initiative, a part of the clean energy transition project, is supported by a 400 billion baht loan decree, with 200 billion baht specifically allocated for solar panel installations. The plan aims to alleviate the financial burden of high energy prices on citizens, while also mitigating the impacts of energy price volatility due to global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East. The government will subsidize installation costs up to 50,000 baht per household, targeting 1 million households initially, with potential expansion to 1.5 million households.

Mr. Ekniti emphasized that the project will transform citizens from mere "consumers" to "electricity producers," allowing them to sell surplus electricity back to the government. The Ministry of Interior is preparing to submit a detailed funding request for the remaining 200 billion baht to the Ministry of Finance. Public registration for this initiative is expected to commence in mid-October 2026, with completion projected by the end of 2027.

For those unable to afford the upfront costs, state financial institutions such as the Government Savings Bank and the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives will provide initial investments. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) will purchase the electricity, using the revenue to repay the financial institutions, potentially allowing citizens to avoid initial investments. A 5-kilowatt system could yield approximately 1,000 baht per month for low electricity users, providing a steady income over the 25-30 year lifespan of the solar panels. However, each electricity meter owner is limited to one subsidy, and government funding will only be provided once EGAT has successfully connected the system to prevent fraud.

Moreover, the initiative will foster job creation and support domestic industries. The Ministry of Labor is developing training programs for Thai citizens in solar panel assembly, installation, and maintenance. Additionally, collaboration with the Board of Investment is underway to promote solar panel production in Thailand. Considerations include reducing import duties on essential raw materials not produced domestically, such as solar cells, to boost domestic production and enhance competitiveness against imports from countries like China.