Thailand approves electricity bill cuts, boosts rooftop solar
Thailand's government approved lower residential electricity rates and expanded rooftop solar incentives, allowing households to sell excess power back to the grid at 2.20 baht per unit starting after June 2026. Over 90% of households are e
BANGKOK — 29 April 2026, Thailand's National Energy Policy Council has approved two measures to cut household electricity bills and promote rooftop solar, Energy Minister Ekkanat Promphan said.
Speaking at Government House alongside Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, Ekkanat said the council agreed to expand support for residential solar installations, allowing households to generate their own electricity and sell excess power back to the grid.
Under the plan, installation procedures will be streamlined under a cabinet resolution, with distribution utilities offering a one-stop service. Households generating surplus electricity will be able to sell it at 2.20 baht per unit, with sales expected to begin after June 2026.
The government will also sharply increase its solar power purchase cap from 90 megawatts to 500 megawatts per round, with further expansions planned once each quota is filled. Authorities aim to maximise adoption by effectively turning residential rooftops into small-scale power generators.
The second measure introduces a progressive electricity tariff structure for residential users only, excluding businesses, shops and industrial operators.
Households consuming up to 200 units per month will pay less than 3 baht per unit. Those using between 200 and 500 units will also see lower average costs under a tiered pricing system, Ekkanat said.
He added that more than 90% of households, around 21 million, are expected to benefit, particularly those with monthly bills below 2,200 baht.
Ekkanat rejected concerns that the policy would shift costs onto industrial users, saying the revised tariff structure applies only to residential consumers and does not affect existing rates for businesses.
To support solar adoption, the government is working with the Finance Ministry to provide instalment-based financing, allowing households to install rooftop systems at costs lower than their electricity bills. State utilities have been tasked with studying investment and offering low-cost installation services for those without upfront funds.
Responding to questions, Ekkanat said households using no more than 200 units could see bills fall by about 20%, while those using up to 400 units could see reductions of around 10%.
He confirmed the tariff scheme would remain in place for the duration of the government's term and said approval processes for rooftop solar would be simplified by removing local permit requirements. Installations for self-use must be completed within seven days, or within 30 days if electricity is to be sold back to the grid.
Varawut reiterated that the measures apply only to residential properties and would not impose additional burdens on industrial users, amid concerns raised by the Federation of Thai Industries.
