Regulator expected to extend subsidy on electricity bills
published : 5 May 2021 at 04:00
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Energy authorities are preparing to extend the power discount period for households and businesses to reduce monthly expenses during the third wave due to work-from-home orders.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) earlier this year approved a discounted electricity tariff from February to March as part of the state s relief measures to help individuals and businesses cope with the second outbreak in Samut Sakhon.
The third outbreak, which started in Bangkok pubs in early April, prompted the Energy Ministry to talk with state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) and national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc on an electricity discount extension, said permanent secretary for energy Kulit Sombatsiri.
Factories to monitor emissions
18 A hazy day in Bangkok as the skyline is blanketed with PM2.5 dust particles. (Photo by Chanat Katanyu)
Up to 600 factories nationwide are being ordered to closely monitor their emissions to better curb air pollutants as the Industry Ministry steps up efforts to cope with PM2.5 ultra-fine dust, now blanketing most parts of Bangkok.
The mandatory requirement, with a maximum fine of 200,000 baht for violators, will be enforced under a new ministerial law expected to take effect next year, according to the ministry.
It replaces the existing 2001 law that is considered outdated as it covers only large industrial estates in some provinces.