Bangkok:The Deputy Government Spokesperson has countered Minister Trirat's assertions regarding the "Solar for the People" program, emphasizing the importance of fair pricing and installer options rather than judging the program as favoring large corporations based on the non-participation of some operators.
According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Government Spokesperson clarified that the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) has proposed a package for a 5-kilowatt solar rooftop system at a price not exceeding 140,000 baht, which includes a 7-year maintenance period. The Ministry of Finance is working to reduce the guarantee fee to a maximum of 500 baht per year, supporting SME loans.
Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, addressed concerns raised by Mr. Trirat Sirichantaropa about the 1 million household solar power project, which includes issues like installation costs, competition, and guarantee conditions. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment of cost-effectiveness, quality, and service rather than focusing solely on initial installation costs.
The government, through Ms. Lalida, reiterated its commitment to fair competition among qualified contractors, stating that the presence of non-participants does not indicate favoritism towards large corporations. The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) ensures that public choices and safety standards are maintained, with transparent procedures and timelines for service providers.
Concerns about middlemen and pricing were also addressed, with Ms. Lalida highlighting the importance of clear and itemized quotations for the public. She noted that Thai Industrial Standards (TIS) cannot fully replace standards for electrical installation, underscoring the need for appropriate risk-based conditions.
Deputy Interior Minister Polpeera Suwannachawi explained the collateral system, where the 50,000 baht guarantee is a protective measure for citizens. The government has engaged with state banks and SMEG to create a fee structure to support small businesses, ensuring they can compete while safeguarding public interests.
Ms. Lalida also mentioned that the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) is accepting registrations for solar installation contractors until December 31, 2026, to monitor the project's progress. The government remains open to feedback, focusing on providing Thai households with access to clean energy and reducing electricity costs without guaranteeing profits for any single contractor.