Energy minister focuses on future

Auttapol Rerkpiboon is prioritising long-term projects as others chase quick wins, writes Yuthana Praiwan

- Yuthana Praiwan

Not all projects fit the government's promoted "Quick Big Win" policy, but that is not stopping Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon from acting on efforts he sees as useful.

"I would like to be the first to kick things off," said Mr Auttapol, a former chief executive of PTT Plc, referring to new energy policies he wants to initiate now, though the outcomes will not be realised until after the Anutin Charnvirakul administration steps down.

The premier pledged to work for four months before dissolving parliament early next year, too short for some energy initiatives to bear fruit.

Mr Auttapol said he wants to carry out new projects crucial for Thailand's shift towards clean energy, even if some of them are considered ambitious or their development will be highly contentious.

He said there needs to be more serious consideration of hydrogen and nuclear energy development to pave the way for the government to achieve its net-zero target.

The push for these difficult tasks will be done in tandem with Quick Big Win schemes focused on immediate, impactful and inclusive projects, which are likely to be completed before the end of the government's term, said Mr Auttapol.

NEW HUB

He said he aims to make Thailand a hub for green hydrogen in Southeast Asia, giving the country a new status after past governments focused on the potential to become a regional centre of the electric vehicle, aviation and medical industries.

"This is a new strategic goal that requires systematic actions," said Mr Auttapol.