The government aims to maintain the current electricity tariff at 4.18 baht per kilowatt-hour for the remainder of the year to control electricity costs, despite expected increases in gas prices. This decision comes as the state budget faces additional financial strain.
Businesses and households are likely to continue paying bills based on the 4.18 baht per unit rate until the end of this year, even though the Energy Regulatory Commission has suggested a tariff hike. Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga mentioned readiness to maintain the current tariff but did not elaborate on the budget or regulatory measures.
Recent estimates indicate a potential 28 billion baht subsidy from the government to sustain the 4.18 baht per unit rate, necessitating repayment to energy providers Egat and PTT. Gas accounts for 63% of the country’s power generation fuel sources.
Despite efforts to keep costs steady, concerns remain beyond the four-month mark as global gas prices are anticipated to rise, especially during the winter season when energy demand spikes. The ERC is considering different tariff options to offset rising gas costs and address outstanding debts to Egat and PTT, with potential increases of 11-44%.
