Energy Regulator Opens Public Consultation on Residential Electricity Rate Restructuring, Guarantees First 200 Units Not to Exceed 3 Baht
Thailand's Energy Regulatory Commission opened public consultation on a new progressive electricity rate structure that guarantees the first 200 units of household consumption won't exceed 3 baht per unit, with higher rates for heavy consum
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), represented by Secretary-General Poolpat Leesombatpaibul, announced it is now accepting public comments on a proposal to restructure residential electricity rates using a progressive pricing model. The initiative follows cabinet resolutions from April 28, 2025, and the National Energy Policy Committee's decision from April 29, 2025, which guarantee that the first 200 units of monthly household electricity consumption will not exceed 3 baht per unit.
Electricity rates for consumption above 200 units will follow a progressive tiered structure to reflect actual costs and encourage efficient energy use. The distribution utilities have developed four case study scenarios, all maintaining the core principle that residential consumers using up to 200 units pay no more than 3 baht per unit through the progressive rate adjustment in the energy charge component.
High-volume consumers will face incrementally higher rates based on usage levels, excluding monthly service fees, variable charges, and value-added tax. "All four scenarios establish different energy charge rates for each consumption block. Residential consumers using up to 200 units pay no more than 3 baht per unit, while those consuming 401 units or more will face additional charges averaging 0.54-1.03 baht per unit, bringing their total average to 4.96-5.45 baht per unit. Implementation is expected to begin with billing cycles in July 2025," the ERC stated.
Scenarios 1 and 2 set higher rates for households consuming 400 units or more monthly compared to current levels, while Scenarios 3 and 4 apply higher rates to those consuming 200 units or more. This restructuring aligns with government policy while maintaining appropriate cost-reflective principles and considering impacts on different consumer groups and long-term grid stability.
All feedback and recommendations received during the consultation period, running from May 22 to June 5, 2025, will be compiled and analyzed by the ERC before proceeding with legally mandated next steps. The public can submit comments via www.erc.or.th.
