Thailand is one of Asia’s foremost development success stories, with decades of sustained growth and poverty reduction. But with growth has come corresponding increases in energy demand and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Increased industrial development and use of motorized transport, which together accounted for 86% of the energy demand growth, were the driving force behind a 10% increase in the energy intensity of Thailand’s economy from 1996–2001. Over 60% of Thailand’s primary energy supply is imported, and fossil fuels account for over 90% of the base energy supply. To keep pace with demand while ensuring sustainability, major new investments in the power and transport sectors are needed.
...the projected annual increase in energy demand from 2009-2030
To effectively address its growing energy and transport needs, the government of Thailand will tap US$170 million in financing from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) for a portfolio of renewable energy investments, geared toward achieving significant GHG reductions and accelerating private sector investment in utility-scale clean energy projects. CTF funds are expected to mobilize over US$215 million in additional public and private financing. Thailand’s CTF investment plan was designed by the government in coordination the Asian Development Bank (ADB), members of the World Bank Group (IBRD, IFC), and key Thai stakeholders.