Energy Min draws up plan to prevent future power shortages

BANGKOK, 20 March 2014 (NNT) – The Ministry of Energy has drawn up preventive measures to prevent future shortages of electrical power in light of the planned closure of Bongkot gas field and Thai-Malaysian Joint Development Area (JDA).

According to the Energy Ministry, Bongkot gas field and Thai-Malaysian Joint Development Area (JDA) will be closed for maintenance between 10 April and 27 April, during which time power consumption in the country is expected to reach its highest point of 27,000 megawatts.

Despite concerns that 14 southern provinces could probably face a power blackout, Permanent Secretary for Energy Suthep Liumsirijarern has strongly assured that power supply for consumption will be sufficient during the period, given that the country has 4,000 megawatts in reserve.

He went on to say that the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) would increase its capacity in natural gas distribution to ensure sufficient supply during the 18-day period of closure.

Finally, he said the ministry had instructed responsible agencies to ensure that Thailand’s 14 southern provinces have enough power supply during the closure.