Suchat Orders Comprehensive Investigation in Phetchaburi: Public Hearings on Energy and Petrochemical Projects with Full Transparency
Thailand's environment minister has ordered a comprehensive investigation into Phetchaburi's proposed petrochemical and oil conversion projects following strong public opposition, with transparent hearings drawing over 700 residents concern
May 1, 2025 — Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin has issued an urgent order for relevant agencies to investigate conditions in Phetchaburi Province and gather public opinion regarding opposition to the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for Siam Gulf Petrochemical's condensate and crude oil conversion plant project and its power and steam generation unit project. This action follows a complaint filed by Phetchaburi Provincial MP Thiwalrat Angkinanth.
The ministry has assigned Deputy Permanent Secretary Nipont Jamrongsirisak as oversight coordinator and instructed the Natural Resources and Environment Policy and Planning Office (ONEP) to expedite transparent and comprehensive public hearings, with ONEP Secretary-General Bannarak Serimthong personally attending the consultations.
The public hearing drew over 700 participants, including government agencies, local representatives, and community residents. Three main concerns emerged:
1. Lack of transparency in previous public hearings 2. Impacts from the existing oil refinery that received EIA approval in 2004 3. Environmental, health, and livelihood concerns, given the area's importance for tourism and agriculture
ONEP's secretary-general has ordered officials to conduct a thorough environmental impact inspection on May 8, 2025, covering the petrochemical project, mooring buoys, subsea oil pipelines, and storage facilities operated by Asia Link Terminal.
Minister Suchat emphasized that public participation is central to the ministry's approach and that all EIA procedures must be transparent, verifiable, and prioritize environmental and community well-being impacts. The goal is to balance economic development with sustainable natural resource conservation.
