State-Owned Banks Launch Low-Interest Loans to Boost Renewable Energy Adoption in Thailand

Bangkok: Four state-owned banks are offering low-interest loans to support Thais in adopting renewable energy. Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is accelerating efforts to turn "crisis" into "opportunity" by improving energy efficiency amidst rising oil prices and the prospect of increasing electricity costs. The government has enlisted four state-owned banks to promote the transition of citizens and businesses to clean energy and energy-saving technologies, reducing costs and enhancing competitiveness. The four SFIs (Social Financial Institutions) are jointly offering loans covering households, farmers, and SMEs to alleviate energy expenses and drive the country towards a green economy.

According to Thai News Agency, GHB (Government Housing Bank) launches three "Happy and Comfortable Home" packages for purchasing, building, or renovating energy-efficient homes with renewable energy installations, at interest rates starting at 2.20% per year. This also includes the GHB's Energy Efficiency Loan (Number 5) with a fixed interest rate of 2.69% for the first two years, and a solar roof loan with a maximum loan amount of 300,000 baht and a fixed interest rate of 3.90% for the first three years, without requiring additional mortgage registration.

BAAC (Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives) supports farmers in adopting the BCG Model through machinery loans with repayment periods up to 10 years, and BCG loans with flexible terms and repayment periods up to 15 years, along with working capital for 12-18 months.

SME D Bank supports entrepreneurs in adapting to green businesses through the SME Green Productivity loan, with a maximum loan amount of 30 million baht, an interest rate of 3%, a repayment period of 10 years, and a 12-month grace period for principal repayment.