The President of the Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce has proposed that the government enhance energy security in the Northeast to assist businesses in lowering electricity costs and to accelerate clarity on the future of the Sin Phu Hom gas field by 2027.
Mr. Jakkrit Siripanich, President of the Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce, stated that energy security and business operating costs are crucial issues for Khon Kaen's and the Northeast's economy. The Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce, the Khon Kaen Industry Council, and the Khon Kaen Thai Bankers Association have jointly discussed and proposed to the government to safeguard energy security in the Northeast, reduce cost burdens amid fragile purchasing power, and urgently clarify the future of the Sin Phu Hom gas field by 2027.
The private sector in Khon Kaen, especially small and medium enterprises, wants the government to increase opportunities for entrepreneurs to access support measures for installing solar panels and upgrading to energy-efficient machinery. Some operators wish to invest to reduce expenses but face constraints related to funding and support program conditions. Measures that lower upfront investment and speed up return on investment would help businesses decide to invest more easily and reduce their energy costs.
Mr. Jakkrit explained that energy prices affect businesses and the public in many ways, particularly oil prices linked to transportation and goods costs. When expenses rise but incomes do not, purchasing power is pressured. Consumers may reduce travel or adjust spending habits, while businesses must manage costs alongside seeking additional revenue.
Regarding economic opportunities, Khon Kaen remains strong as a hub for trade, healthcare, education, and services, including meetings, exhibitions, sports, and festivals that attract spending in the area. Developing these activities must proceed alongside infrastructure readiness and managing business costs.
Mr. Jakkrit addressed energy security, noting the business sector closely monitors the development plans for the Sin Phu Hom natural gas field, a domestic fuel source that supplies gas to the Nam Phong power plant in Khon Kaen Province, supporting the Northeast's power system. Clarifying the future of this gas field is vital for energy planning and investor confidence in the region.
Information from discussions with the Department of Mineral Fuels indicates that the Sin Phu Hom gas field still has natural gas resources available for further development. Therefore, the private sector urges the government to expedite defining operational plans before the current concession expires, allowing time to prepare investments, develop the field, and carry out related work continuously.
Mr. Jakkrit emphasized that the government should make a clear decision by 2027, because delays could hinder preparation efforts. Gas production requires investment and additional drilling depending on the field's condition. Waiting until the concession nears expiration to decide could result in insufficient preparation time and increase risks to operational continuity.
The Chamber of Commerce is open to any approach the government chooses, whether involving the current operator or a new one, prioritizing timely decisions and readiness to ensure continuous field development without disrupting the local economy.
For businesses, reliable electricity is a critical factor in site selection, especially for factories and high-energy-use companies. Energy uncertainty could prompt investors to consider other locations. Therefore, the private sector wants the government to provide clear guidance in advance so businesses can plan confidently.
Although purchasing electricity from neighboring countries is an option, the readiness of production sources and transmission systems must be considered. Mr. Jakkrit believes domestic energy resources with potential should be utilized effectively alongside developing alternative energy sources to strengthen the Northeast's economic security in the long term.