Bangkok: New household electricity rates will take effect in August, with the first 200 units of electricity consumed costing only 3 baht per unit on the September 14th bill. According to Thai News Agency, the government is implementing measures to reduce citizens' living costs by restructuring electricity rates. The changes, applicable from August, will be reflected in bills issued on September 14, 2026. The rate for the initial 200 units will decrease to 3 baht per unit, and the public utility surcharge will be eliminated, further reducing costs by approximately 9 satang per unit. This initiative will benefit approximately 23 million residential households, including tenants of condominiums, apartments, and rental houses.
Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Polpeera Suwannachawi, announced that after discussions with the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), both agencies are prepared to implement these measures following the National Energy Policy Council's (NEPC) resolution. The public will receive thorough information on their rights and details of the new measures.
Residential customers will benefit from the new tariff structure, paying 3 baht per unit for the first 200 units. Those previously enjoying special rates for the first 15 or 35 units will maintain their existing rates. Consumption beyond 200 units will be charged at the normal rates set by the electricity authorities.
The removal of the public utility surcharge from electricity bills will further reduce costs by approximately 9 satang per unit. State welfare card holders can continue registering for electricity bill assistance.
The government ensures equal access to electricity for all citizens, extending the right to the new rates to residents of various housing types, including those with temporary meters. Tenants facing unfair electricity charges can report issues to the electricity authority or the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) for investigation.
Moreover, the government is promoting clean energy use by instructing MEA and PEA to support solar rooftop installations, facilitating citizens' self-generation and use of electricity. Preparations are underway to discuss loan support measures with financial institutions for solar rooftop installations.
Mr. Dichawat Chan-ee, Governor of the MEA, confirmed the agency's readiness to implement NEPC's resolution by preparing its billing and service systems for the new rates starting August 2026, with billing on the September 14, 2026 cycle. MEA is enhancing services to support the government's energy policies effectively.