In November 2021, Thailand’s Prime Minister announced pledges to reach carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by or before 2065. With the new target, Thailand is reviewing its long-term strategy for reducing emissions and the national energy plan.
Agora, together with NewClimate Institute, GIZ Thailand, Energy Research Institute, and Thailand Development Research Institute consulted extensively with Thai energy and non-energy stakeholders to create a pathway for the energy sector to reach carbon neutrality. The pathway represents the outcome of several ‘what-if’ experiments, following guiding principles of the power sector as a key enabler, mature technologies, Thailand's pursuit to become a front-runner, and the availability of carbon sinks to offset remaining emissions.
The report focuses on key strategies in the power, transport, and industry sectors, as well as actions required by 2030. The pathway suggests key actions by 2030: solar booster program (5GW per year), no new coal power plants, flexible operation of power system, and electrification of transport and industry. Embarking on the energy transition not only benefits the Thai economy but also increases energy security and environmental sustainability, while reducing air pollution and health impacts.
