Attawich Calls for ERC Dissolution After Failing to Lower Power Tariffs
Attawich Suwanpakdee has urged the dissolution of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) after its proposed electricity tariff options for late 2026 offered no price reductions, despite the government absorbing 18 billion baht in street lighting costs.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Attawich calls for the dissolution of the ERC over high electricity rates
- ERC proposes four tariff options for Sep-Dec 2026 with no reduction
- Government recently took over 18 billion baht in street lighting burdens
- Proposal suggests merging ERC staff into the National Energy Policy Council
Attawich Suwanpakdee has raised serious concerns following the Energy Regulatory Commission's (ERC) public hearing held between July 13 and July 20, 2026, regarding the average electricity tariff adjustments for the September to December 2026 billing period.
The ERC's proposal outlines four distinct approaches for the upcoming period. The first three options involve raising the electricity rates, while the final option maintains the current rate at 3.95 baht per unit, meaning there are zero provisions or pathways to lower electricity costs for the public.
Attawich pointed out structural flaws within the regulatory body, noting that the ERC was established in 2008 under the Energy Industry Act with a clear mandate to protect consumers regarding service rates. However, over the past decade, the government's share of power generation has dropped below 30%, leaving the remaining 70% in private hands.
Thailand's energy pricing structure has long faced scrutiny over high reserve margins and long-term private power purchase agreements. The government's recent intervention to shoulder 18 billion baht in street lighting costs aims to clear legacy burdens that have been embedded in household electricity bills for nearly four decades.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
"มีแต่หัว ไม่มีตัว" ควรประกอบร่างใหม่ให้สมบูรณ์เสียที
Attawich Suwanpakdee
Given these systemic issues, Attawich proposed dissolving the ERC and reassigning its personnel to the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC). He argued that the NEPC currently operates primarily as a policy-making body without sufficient operational staffing, making a structural merger essential for a more effective national energy administration.
Source: Matichon Politics
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