Tham Manao Community Leads Clean Energy Model
A Lopburi community has pioneered a clean energy model using biogas from pig farms to power 480 households across eight villages, generating nearly 3.5 million baht from carbon credits since 2016.
The Ministry of Energy showcased the Tham Manao Community in Lopburi Province as a model for clean energy development that reduces household costs and increases income sustainably. Energy officials Thongsak Wongla and subdistrict administrator Vasant Dornchai led media tours of the community's integrated energy and environmental management system in Chai Badan District. The initiative, ongoing since 2009, has developed a biogas production system from pig farms via over 23 kilometers of pipelines, now serving 480 households across 8 villages while reducing air pollution and community energy costs.
The community implements a circular economy approach, combining biogas generation, agricultural solar power systems, and comprehensive waste management. Solar-dried banana products branded "Bananaow" add value through a parabolic dome drying system, while integrated waste management produces alternative fuel and generates revenue. The community has earned nearly 3.47 million baht since 2016 by selling carbon credits through Thailand's Voluntary Emission Reduction Program, equivalent to about 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide.
Tham Manao has won energy and environmental awards at national and ASEAN levels, including Thailand Energy Awards and ASEAN Energy Awards, demonstrating how community-level clean energy creates sustainable security across energy, economy, and environment. The Ministry of Energy promotes clean energy as a tool to improve quality of life, reduce costs, create jobs, and strengthen communities. The initiative positions Tham Manao as a model community and learning center for others seeking sustainable development through environmental management and carbon credit generation.
