Electricity in Thailand in 2024
In 2024, Thailand's electricity consumption remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, with these sources accounting for roughly 73% of the total electricity. The majority comes from gas, providing a little more than half, while coal contributes around 14%. On the other hand, low-carbon sources constitute about 13% of electricity production. Biomass takes the lead within this group at nearly 6%, while hydropower, solar, and wind make up roughly 3%, 3%, and 2% respectively. Unfortunately, these clean sources have a long way to go in overtaking the predominantly fossil-based electricity landscape in Thailand.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Thailand?
Electricity consumption in Thailand is on the rise, with the latest data showing a consumption level of 3254 kWh per person, an increase compared to the previous high in 2023, which stood at 3083 kWh per person. This growth is crucial in meeting the increasing demand driven by technological advancements and urban expansion. However, while the total electricity use has climbed, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a slight decline, dropping to 413 kWh per person from a peak of 420 kWh per person in 2018. This drop reflects the need for an urgent pivot towards expanding clean electricity to sustain growth without exacerbating environmental concerns.
Suggestions
For Thailand to boost its low-carbon electricity generation, solar and nuclear power should be prioritized. Learning from successful regions can illuminate the path forward; for example, South Korea relies on nuclear energy for 32% of its electricity, showcasing the significant impact of nuclear expansion. Similarly, Nevada generates a notable 33% of its electricity from solar power, highlighting its vast potential within Thailand's sunny climate. A combination of these strategies has the potential to significantly enhance Thailand's clean electricity mix, helping to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate impacts while accommodating the growing consumption demands.
History
Historically, Thailand has seen its low-carbon electricity generation fluctuating over the decades. In the early years, particularly the 1980s and 1990s, hydropower played a substantial role in increasing clean electricity, with several years recording notable growth. However, this trend faced interruptions, as seen in the late 1990s and early 2010s, where reductions in hydropower were common. In the 2000s and 2010s, biofuels and wind energy contributed positively, although inconsistently. Notably, biofuels experienced significant growth in 2016 but faced setbacks in subsequent years. While these fluctuations demonstrate the challenges of maintaining consistent clean electricity growth, they also underscore the potential for innovative solutions to achieve a stable and increasing low-carbon share in the future.
