Thailand’s Rooftop Solar Reform Bill Aims to Empower Households, But Triggers Concerns Over Ministerial Power

Thailand is set to introduce a transformative energy reform bill designed to accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar systems nationwide. The proposed legislation seeks to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and lower installation costs for households, marking a significant move toward greater energy democratization.

However, the bill has drawn criticism from industry stakeholders who worry it could centralize too much authority within the Ministry of Energy.

Government Drives Solar Expansion Through Legislative Reform

Led by Thailand’s Ministry of Energy, the new bill aims to simplify the approval process for rooftop solar by removing the need for separate approvals from five different government agencies—a key barrier under current regulations.

Government spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan explained that the goal is to make solar systems more accessible and affordable, ultimately increasing adoption. The legislation includes five main reforms:

1. Permit-Free Installations – Transitioning from a permit-based model to a notification system to streamline the process and avoid post-installation rejections.

2. Financial Incentives – Introducing tax credits and low-interest loan programs to reduce the financial burden on households.

3. One-Stop Service Center – Establishing a centralized hub to support both public and private sector stakeholders throughout the installation process.

4. Unified Safety Standards – Enforcing national safety and quality standards for all rooftop solar installations.

5. National Legal Framework – Creating a central legal structure to ensure equal access to solar power across the country.

“Solar power is no longer a futuristic ideal—it’s a realistic energy option for every household,” Sasikarn stated. “This bill is meant to lower electricity costs, strengthen household energy independence, and promote long-term community resilience.”

Debate Over Ministerial Control Emerges

Despite the bill’s widespread support, concerns have arisen regarding the extent of control it would grant the Ministry of Energy. Critics warn that the proposed framework could allow the Energy Minister to wield disproportionate influence over the solar market.

Under the bill, the minister would be empowered to set technical standards, approve specific technologies, determine eligible energy buyers, and set electricity purchase prices. Detractors argue that this level of authority could lead to decisions being made unilaterally and without sufficient oversight or stakeholder input.

One prominent solar developer expressed concern that, while the bill is progressive in its objectives, it risks sacrificing transparency by consolidating regulatory power within a single ministry.

Industry Urges for Balance and Implementation Clarity

Not all feedback has been negative. The head of a major photovoltaic industry association noted that the bill still includes provisions for multi-agency involvement, preventing total regulatory centralization.

While acknowledging the draft's lack of operational detail, he praised its broader intent to reduce barriers to entry—especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) facing high energy costs during economic downturns.

Legislative Timeline and Outlook

Public consultations on the draft concluded at the end of May. The Ministry of Energy is expected to present a revised version to the Cabinet later this month, with parliamentary debate anticipated in July.

As Thailand continues its transition toward a more decentralized and cleaner energy landscape, this bill has the potential to reshape household energy generation and regulatory dynamics—offering both new opportunities and challenges as the country seeks to balance innovation with accountability.