Thailand Targets Over 50% Clean Energy Share by 2026 Amid Policy Shifts

Thailand is aiming to accelerate its energy transition in 2026, targeting more than 50% clean energy under its draft 2026–2050 Power Development Plan, following a slower rollout of renewables in 2025.

According to a report by Watson Farley & Williams, progress in 2025 was impacted by delays in feed-in tariff procurement and uncertainty around pricing mechanisms. The government is now looking to 2026 as a turning point to restore momentum and scale up renewable deployment.

The draft long-term power plan outlines a significant expansion of renewable energy, including floating solar projects, with the goal of increasing clean energy capacity and advancing the country’s net-zero ambitions. However, analysts note that investor confidence will depend on clear tariff structures, defined project timelines, and scalable market frameworks.

In parallel, Thailand is laying the groundwork for advanced energy technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and carbon capture and storage (CCS). While these remain in early stages, regulatory frameworks and feasibility studies are expected to progress in the coming years.

The country’s energy transition is also shifting from policy direction to market implementation. The draft Climate Change Act introduces a unified governance framework, including a national policy committee, climate fund, and emissions tracking system, alongside mechanisms for emissions trading and carbon pricing.

Meanwhile, initiatives such as the Utility Green Tariff (UGT1) are enabling businesses to procure renewable electricity more flexibly, while developments in direct PPAs and third-party access are opening the market to new procurement models.

Together, these measures highlight Thailand’s push toward a more mature, scalable clean energy market and its long-term decarbonization strategy.