Uttaradit: The Ministry of Energy is spearheading efforts to promote the "Queen Cashew Nuts," a local specialty from the Sirikit Dam, as a new eco-friendly product. In a bid to support community products and reduce energy consumption, the Ministry is also facilitating the sale of these cashew nuts at gas stations across the nation, targeting younger consumers.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sopon Maneechote and Mrs. Pattira Saipratumthip, Inspectors-General of the Ministry of Energy, alongside Mr. Wiphu Piwat, Deputy Governor for Electricity Generation at the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), visited Uttaradit Province to witness the achievements of the "Energy-Saving Community Products" initiative. They presented the project logo to the Ban Hat Kai Toi Career Promotion Community Enterprise Group in Tha Pla District, producers of the "Queen" brand cashew nuts. This certification signifies that the product meets the Ministry's standards for energy conservation, waste reduction, and environmentally friendly production processes, thus positioning it for broader market access among the younger demographic.
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) supports 'Queen Cashew Nuts' by using solar dryers in the drying process, reducing fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and enhancing energy efficiency. The production also leverages local wisdom, employing human labor for peeling and shelling, which adds value and sustains employment in the community. The product, now recognized by several standards including the FDA and Healthy Choice mark, generates an average annual income of 2.5 million baht and emits only 0.119 kilograms of CO2 per 100 grams package. Mr. Sopon Maneechote emphasized the Ministry's mission to promote efficient energy cost management and elevate community products to environmentally friendly standards. The success of the Ban Hat Kai Toi community underscores that strategic energy investments can reduce production costs while fostering local income and employment.
Ms. Pattira Saipratumthip highlighted that "Queen Cashew Nuts," endorsed by EGAT, has achieved the criteria for energy-saving community products. These products will be available in PT MaxMart stores at over 100 PT gas stations nationwide, and soon in PTT OR's Thai Det stores. This initiative not only boosts income for local farmers but also aligns gas stations with societal contributions by supporting eco-friendly products that mitigate global warming. The Ministry of Energy plans to extend partnerships with additional vendors to ensure project success, thereby enhancing farmers' income and facilitating consumer access to community products that contribute to environmental sustainability.
The Ministry of Energy remains committed to advancing community energy projects. In 2025, the Ministry aims to accelerate the recognition and market expansion of "Energy-Saving Community Products." Collaborations with leading petroleum service stations such as OR, Shell, Susco, Caltex, and PT are on the horizon, aiming to establish networks, expand distribution channels, and sustainably increase community income. An upcoming campaign will promote energy-saving community products, fostering an environmentally conscious consumption perspective and aiding global warming mitigation.