Bangkok: In a significant move to tackle the ongoing palm oil price issue, Mr. Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, announced his collaboration with the Ministry of Industry. This initiative aims to propose legislative measures to regulate the oil business and promote solar energy usage among the public and farmers.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pirapan addressed the extraordinary House of Representatives meeting during the first reading of the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Expenditure Act. He emphasized that while the Ministry of Energy is not primarily responsible for setting palm oil prices, it has historically supported palm oil farmers by blending palm oil with diesel during price drops. The Ministry is now seeking to collaborate with relevant agencies to establish a sustainable solution for maintaining fair palm oil prices, similar to the strategies employed for sugarcane and sugar.
The Ministry of Energy is also focusing on enhancing solar energy usage by streamlining the installation process for solar cells in residential and commercial buildings. Efforts are underway to procure essential solar power equipment, such as inverters, at reduced prices for consumers. Additionally, a fund mechanism is being prepared to help farmers access solar-powered agricultural water pumps, potentially reducing their operational costs and improving their livelihoods.
Despite the absence of a formal environmental strategy, the Ministry of Energy is committed to supporting the country's Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero policies through various energy initiatives.
Ms. Chutima Kotchaphan, a party-list MP from the Prachachon Party, expressed her concerns during the meeting, urging the Ministry of Energy to explore biodiesel options to support palm oil farmers. She emphasized the need for cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce to safeguard the future of palm oil farmers.
Mr. Pirapan assured that despite his recent trip to China to negotiate solar system procurements, his commitment to addressing domestic issues remains unwavering. He emphasized his dedication to public service and active participation in budget debates, pledging continued efforts to support the nation's energy and agricultural sectors.