Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Energy (MOE) has put forward a proposal to the Cabinet for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the ASEAN Power Grid and the ASEAN Petroleum Security Framework Agreement during the 43rd ASEAN Ministers on Energy (AMEM) Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This initiative is designed to bolster regional energy connectivity and security, providing mechanisms for cooperation and support during potential energy shortages in Thailand, particularly amidst oil and gas crises. The proposal also aims to attract investment in power grid development and lure investors interested in clean electricity operations in Thailand, thereby contributing to the country's economic growth.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthapol Rerkpiboon, the Minister of Energy, has accelerated key projects since assuming office, particularly those related to international energy security cooperation. The MOE has presented two significant proposals to the Cabinet, which will require the signatures of the 10 ASEAN energy ministers at the 43rd AMEM Meeting, scheduled for October 14-17, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The first proposal is the draft Enhanced Memorandum of Understanding on the ASEAN Power Grid, set to take effect post-ratification by ASEAN Member States. It focuses on expanding regional electricity connectivity, both onshore and offshore, through policy development and the promotion of clean energy technologies, in line with each member state's context and laws. ASEAN will undertake joint studies and evaluations of policies, laws, and plans to advance the ASEAN Power Grid Interconnection Project. This includes coordinating with agencies and partners to secure necessary budgets, investments, and technical support for these initiatives.
The second proposal involves the draft ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security, aimed at assisting member countries facing petroleum shortages during energy crises. This mechanism will involve the joint procurement and sharing of petroleum to mitigate such shortages, with the assistance being voluntary and commercially viable. Additionally, ASEAN members will collaborate on developing and implementing short-, medium-, and long-term energy measures to address risks and impacts during emergencies.
"Thailand is a net energy importer, and ensuring energy security is a key priority. Cooperation with ASEAN member states is one of the measures the Ministry of Energy has consistently prioritized. The two agreements mentioned above, which I will represent Thailand in signing at the 43rd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM), scheduled for October 16-17, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, represent a key mechanism for seeking cooperation from member countries with potential in oil, natural gas, and electricity connectivity. They also promote investment and generate revenue from cross-border electricity trading, benefiting economic development and attracting investors seeking clean energy for their operations in Thailand," said Mr. Atthapol.