Bangkok: The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has revised its plan to procure additional spot LNG shipments by three more trips, and is accelerating efforts to find alternative pricing options for the May-August period. The adjustment comes as electricity rates for May-August are being closely watched due to conflict in the Middle East pushing global energy prices higher. The ERC is set to submit a final proposal on March 16, following its assessment of the situation and impact of the unrest.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Poolpat Leesombatpaiboon, Secretary-General of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), acting as spokesperson for the ERC, revealed details from the ERC meeting No. 8/2026 (No. 998) held on March 4, 2026. The meeting focused on planning fuel management and maintaining the security of the country's electricity system. The ERC approved an adjustment to the plan for procuring an additional three spot LNG shipments, scheduled for delivery in March-April 2026. Discussions with shippers revealed that some gas sources are in high-risk areas, with transportation routes affected by the tense Middle East situation. To ensure sufficient LNG for electricity generation in Thailand, the ERC has instructed shippers to procure additional LNG.
This action is supported by the Energy Regulatory Commission's authority under the Energy Business Act B.E. 2550 (2007), which empowers the ERC to order negotiations with natural gas sellers to address occasional shortages for national security. Regarding the May-August electricity rates, the ERC is considering all costs, as rates are expected to rise due to higher fuel costs. Options to freeze electricity prices using clawback funds from the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) are under review. The funds amount to tens of billions of baht at the end of 2025, but using them to freeze prices at 3.88 baht per unit could deplete resources and lead to significant rate increases in future billing periods. The ERC aims to prevent significant impacts on the public through careful consideration.