The Thai government’s recent decision to establish a one-stop service center for factory operators looking to adopt solar energy is expected to drive a significant increase in solar panel sales, according to industry suppliers. The move aims to simplify the approval process for businesses seeking to install rooftop solar panels, boosting the country’s renewable energy adoption.
On March 27, the cabinet directed the Energy, Interior, and Industry ministries to collaborate on the initiative as part of broader efforts to improve Thailand’s ease of doing business. The center is designed to streamline bureaucratic procedures, potentially benefiting over 72,000 factories nationwide. By centralizing approvals, the new system eliminates the need for business owners to navigate multiple agencies, reducing the often lengthy application process.
Naruechon Dhumrongpiyawut, chief executive of Gunkul Engineering Plc, a leading clean energy developer, stated that the initiative could significantly accelerate growth in the solar panel market, as well as increase demand for battery energy storage systems (BESS). These systems store excess electricity generated by solar panels for later use, particularly during nighttime or periods of low sunlight. Additionally, factory owners may have the option to sell surplus energy through peer-to-peer trading, though such transactions remain subject to government approval.
The current process for obtaining approval to install solar panels can take up to six months, requiring clearance from six different state agencies. Naruechon welcomed the one-stop service center, emphasizing that it would considerably shorten approval times, in some cases reducing them below the duration required to construct a power plant.
Treerat Sirichantaropas, chief executive of New Energy Plus Solutions Co, a domestic solar panel distributor, also expects the streamlined system to encourage more factories to shift away from costly grid electricity in favor of solar power. He anticipates the new service center will contribute to an increase in the company’s revenue in 2025, following earnings of 200 million baht in the previous year.
Industry leaders believe the initiative will accelerate the country’s transition to renewable energy, fostering a more sustainable and cost-effective power infrastructure for industrial operations.
