Power development plan revised

 In line with lower-than-expected economic growth from 4.5 per cent to 2 per cent this year, the power generating plans of Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand and independent power producers (IPPs) would be delayed, according to the statement from the Energy Ministry.

However, as power reserve must be sustained at 15-20 per cent of installed capacity, the authorities would buy more power from small power producers (SPPs) which are expected to invest about Bt104 billion during 2009-2013. This would reduce Egat's financial cost and reduce the public debts.

 It would also review the deals to buy power from neighbouring countries.

 Under the plan, during 2009-2021, Egat would be involved in the generating of 15,768.7 megawatts. IPPs would supply 7,600MW, SPPs 1,985.5MW and overseas power projects 5,036.6MW. Totally, domestic investment will be tuned at Bt1.65 trillion, down Bt459.6 billion from the original plan.