Government Establishes Data Center Board Amid Fuel Storage Concerns
Thailand's government has established a board to regulate data centers following concerns about illegal fuel storage and resource consumption, as Prime Minister Anutin acknowledged the facilities use significant electricity and water but cr
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the formation of a government board to oversee data center operations on September 17, addressing concerns that while previous administrations prioritized foreign investment, no specific legislation existed for data centers. He noted that data centers consume significant electricity, water, and resources while creating fewer jobs than hoped, but said it would be unfair to penalize investors who brought substantial capital to Thailand. Anutin rejected the idea of demanding a perfect win-win outcome, arguing that expecting both massive foreign investment and high employment gains simultaneously may be unrealistic. However, he stated the government has now established a board to design regulations and draft specific legislation to maximize benefits for investors while ensuring fair resource use regarding energy, cooling water, and environmental protection. The announcement follows Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt's discovery of data centers allegedly illegally storing fuel beneath buildings. Anutin emphasized that such operations must comply with all legal requirements, stating that no one should be permitted to store fuel under buildings to circumvent regulations. He instructed the Department of Public Works and Urban Planning, Interior Ministry, Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, the Electricity Authority, water agencies, and provinces with data centers to share information, coordinate systematically, and monitor impacts on the public during ongoing system development.
