Energy in Thailand

Energy in Thailand refers to the production, storage, import and export, and use of energy in the Southeast Asian nation of Thailand. Thailand has relatively limited domestic fossil fuel resources and relies heavily on imported fuels, particularly crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Domestic energy production includes natural gas from the Gulf of Thailand, lignite coal, and a large biomass sector linked to the agricultural economy.

Thailand’s electricity system is dominated by fossil fuels, particularly natural gas which accounts for the highest total power generation capacity. Coal and lignite provide a smaller share, while renewable energy sources such as biomass, solar, wind, and hydropower are expanding gradually but still represent a minority share of the national energy mix. Biomass is the largest renewable electricity source. Solar will likely play a central role in Thailand's energy transition. Thailand also imports electricity from neighbouring countries, particularly hydropower from Laos.

Energy demand and consumption have grown steadily rapidly since the late twentieth century due to industrialisation and economic development. The transport sector is the largest consumer of petroleum products, while industry accounts for a significant share of electricity use.

Thailand has achieved near-universal electrification and relatively high per-capita electricity consumption compared with many Southeast Asian countries. However, the energy system remains dependent on fossil fuels, particularly imported liquified natural gas, which could present a risk to Thailand's energy security.

Thai energy policy emphasises the diversification of fuel sources and increased renewable energy deployment, aiming for 51% renewables share by 2037. The government has introduced long-term planning frameworks such as the Power Development Plan and the Alternative Energy Development Plan to guide energy infrastructure investment and expand renewable energy capacity. Despite growing renewable targets, analysts note that continued reliance on natural gas and projected electricity demand growth could slow the pace of energy transition.