Bangkok: EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand) has officially refuted allegations made by Mr. Atthawich Suwannaphakdee, the deputy leader of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, accusing the authority of acting as a “sleeping tiger” by allegedly profiting from its intermediary role in the electricity market.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Warit Rattanachuen, Deputy Governor for Strategy and spokesperson for EGAT, addressed the statements made by Mr. Suwannaphakdee during the “Big News Daily” program on Channel ONE 31. Mr. Suwannaphakdee claimed that EGAT generates only 29% of its electricity and purchases the remaining 71% from private companies, reselling it for significant annual profits. He suggested that EGAT should reduce fees to electricity distributors and cease collecting fees from the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) and Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) to lower electricity costs for the public.
EGAT clarified that it is a state enterprise operating under government policies, with electricity prices determined by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). The authority emphasized that its operations do not aim for profit but to generate sufficient revenue for investment and operational sustainability without adding to public debt. EGAT’s profits are allocated following State Enterprise Policy Office (SEPO) regulations, including contributions to government revenue and investments in national electricity infrastructure for energy security.
EGAT also highlighted that any excess profit beyond estimates is returned to the state. The ERC has been using electricity tariff management funds and cash back from unmet investment plans to assist electricity users affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As of December 31, 2025, EGAT reported outstanding Ft receivables of 35,928 million baht.
The authority reiterated its commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability over its 57-year history, emphasizing its role in supporting government energy policies and maintaining the stability of Thailand’s electricity system.
Additionally, the EGAT Employees’ Union expressed concerns that labeling EGAT as a “sleeping tiger” damages the organization’s and its employees’ image. They urged critics to thoroughly research their claims and the public implications of their words.