Ministry of Energy Unveils Low-Cost Solar System Prototype to Combat Electricity Costs.

Bangkok: The Ministry of Energy has marked a significant milestone with the successful production of a prototype for low-cost solar system equipment, as announced by Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial strain of electricity bills on the public, with plans to market the equipment starting next year. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pirapan recently visited the Electrical and Electronics Product Testing Center (PTEC) at the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) in Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani Province. The purpose of his visit was to observe the testing of an inverter, a critical component of solar power systems, designed by Mr. Thaweechai Kraidwong, also known as Kru Noi. The visit included a tour of the Electromagnetic Wave (EMC) Testing Laboratory and the Battery Testing Laboratory, where NSTDA executives welcomed Mr. Pirapan and his team. Mr. Pirapan emphasized the importance of this initiative in reducing electricity costs for the populace. He highlighted two key strategies: streamlining the legal framework for solar power system installations and offering affordable solar equipment. Despite efforts to stabilize electricity prices at 4.18 baht, Mr. Pirapan acknowledged the ongoing financial burden of electricity costs. The focus is on providing cost-effective solar equipment as a long-term solution for reducing electricity expenses. Currently, market prices for solar system equipment are prohibitively high. Mr. Pirapan revealed plans to produce affordable solar cell equipment, known as solar roofs, for public sale. This new direction represents a first for the Ministry of Energy. The prototype inverter developed by the Ministry's working group is now undergoing rigorous quality, stability, and safety checks to meet international standards. The Ministry aims to launch the complete equipment set for public purchase by 2025. The innovative prototype, designed by Kru Noi, is part of the Ministry's ef fort to lessen energy costs for the public. It is anticipated to be available at a price point below current market rates, aligning with the Ministry's policy to promote solar power usage and thereby mitigate high electricity bills. Mr. Pirapan reiterated his commitment to transparency and action under the 'Remove-Reduce-Release-Build' policy, pledging that, with the necessary legal and equipment frameworks in place, the public will soon experience relief from excessive electricity costs.