What if Thailand's demand for electricity outgrows its supply? Do we have enough resources to run industrial plants, government and private offices, and all household appliances?
According to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat), local power consumption increases by about 6% annually. At this rate, the country's current power consumption will grow by nearly 100% in 15 years.
Last week, Bangkok and other capital cities around the world joined the campaign against global warming by turning off the lights for one hour, from 8pm to 9 pm. About two million lights were turned off, reducing electricity consumption by 30%. This is well and good. But we need more than symbolic campaigns to address global warming and conserve energy.
As the country's main electricity producer, Egat has to look for new sources of electricity to meet the rising demand. Currently, 67% of the country's power plants are run by natural gas, followed by coal (17%), hydropower (7%) and oil (6%).
If these energy sources run out, what can Thailand use to propel its economy?
It is high time we explored the possibility of nuclear power production. This is a long-term plan. But if we do not start looking into nuclear energy now, the country's future will be at risk. Source - Bangkok Post