Thailand is preparing to launch the second phase of its 3.6-GW renewable energy scheme by the end of this year, following the resolution of a legal dispute that stalled the first phase.
The first phase, with a combined capacity of 5.2 GW, included wind, solar, and biogas projects. However, the Central Administrative Court suspended a 1,500-MW wind power procurement due to alleged irregularities in the selection process.
Khon Kaen Wind 2 Co, a subsidiary of Energy Absolute (EA), filed a complaint accusing the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of lacking transparency and fairness in the auction held between late 2022 and April 2023.
Although the ERC announced plans to appeal the court's decision, EA has since withdrawn the complaint. The ERC must now await the court's clarification before it can proceed with the second phase of the scheme.
The ERC intends to revise its auction conditions and requirements to prevent future legal challenges. Additionally, three new members will be appointed to its seven-member board, who will help finalize the terms for the upcoming auction.
The second phase of the renewable energy scheme will include additional capacity from solar, wind, and industrial waste-to-energy projects.
Source: The Investor
