Udon Thani:Energy Minister Ekanat Promphan is advancing plans to explore new onshore energy sources in Udon Thani as part of efforts to enhance Thailand's energy self-reliance. This initiative is a response to the ongoing global energy crisis and aims to build on support for biofuels.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Energy highlighted the urgency of securing energy through domestic means due to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East and fluctuating fuel prices. The government is promoting the use of biofuels B20 and E20, which saw consumption surpass 9 million liters per day by the end of October. Additionally, the ministry is boosting palm oil prices for Thai farmers and implementing solar power projects to further energy independence.
Minister Ekanat, alongside executives from the Ministry of Energy and the Department of Natural Resources, announced a new concession for petroleum exploration and production to PTT Exploration and Production International Limited. This includes onshore blocks L1/66 and L3/66 near the Sin Phuhom natural gas field, a notable energy source in northeastern Thailand.
Ekanat emphasized the importance of domestic gas production in reducing dependency on the volatile global market. He stated that the government is committed to accelerating energy resource development across various platforms, including onshore and rooftop sources.
The exploration of blocks L1/66 and L3/66 is expected to streamline integration into existing infrastructure, cutting down on development time and costs. Initial exploration activities, such as seismic surveys and drilling, will span approximately three years, with production from the D-base wells already underway since August 2026. The harvested gas will be directed to the Nam Phong power plant in Khon Kaen province.
This initiative not only aims to secure energy supply but also to generate significant revenue for the government through royalties and taxes, potentially exceeding 60 billion baht. The project has already contributed a US$3 million signature bonus to national revenue and is expected to attract further investment and job creation in the region. This new development reinforces the country's capability to maintain energy self-sufficiency alongside solar power and agricultural initiatives.