The Cabinet has approved energy-saving measures in government agencies, including immediate implementation of work-from-home (WFH) for tasks that do not affect public service delivery, and a ban on overseas study tours or training.
On 10 March 2026 at Government House, Ms. Airin Panrit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the Cabinet acknowledged the Ministry of Energy's proposed energy reduction measures for government agencies. These measures aim to address the volatile global energy prices and mitigate impacts on the economy and citizens’ living costs. Due to geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East— a key energy production and transit region—global oil and energy prices continue to fluctuate. The government places great importance on managing the country’s energy closely. The Ministry of Energy has established the Energy ICS Center to monitor energy developments closely and prepare contingency measures to handle possible disruptions to the country’s energy supply.
Regarding Thailand’s energy situation, the country currently consumes about 124 million liters of refined oil daily. As of 5 March, Thailand’s total oil reserves stood at 8,055 million liters. Daily refined oil consumption averages approximately 3.13 million barrels, with heavy reliance on crude oil imports, especially from the Middle East. The country’s oil reserves, divided between statutory and commercial reserves, can meet national energy demand to some extent. Nonetheless, to prepare for potential scenarios, the Ministry of Energy has proposed energy-saving measures in government agencies focusing on efficient energy use and serving as a model for other sectors. Key measures include:
• Adjusting air conditioning use appropriately, setting temperatures around 26–27 degrees Celsius, wearing short-sleeved shirts, and avoiding suits and ties except for formal occasions.
• Reducing electricity use in office buildings by turning off unnecessary lights and electrical equipment.
• Using Energy Saver modes on computers and turning them off when not in use.
• Reducing elevator use by encouraging stair use for short distances.
• Cutting down on paper and photocopier use, and promoting electronic document systems instead.
• Encouraging online meetings and implementing work-from-home arrangements as appropriate.
Additionally, fuel energy conservation measures include:
• Regular vehicle maintenance checks.
• Driving at appropriate speeds.
• Carpooling to share rides.
• Planning trips to reduce energy consumption.
The government has tasked the Public Relations Department to coordinate with television, radio, and social media outlets to campaign for energy conservation across all sectors during this crisis. Should the situation escalate to seriously affect energy supply, mandatory measures may be proposed, such as banning illuminated advertising signs for products or services, shop signs, cinema signs, and business premises from 10:00 p.m. onwards, and limiting petrol station operating hours to no later than 10:00 p.m., with exceptions for stations on major highways. A 5% reduction in fuel use could save about 330,000 liters per month, valued at approximately 10.45 million baht monthly. Similarly, a 5% reduction in electricity use could save about 31 million units per month. These measures aim to promote efficient energy use, reduce government energy expenses, set a conservation example for other sectors, and enhance national energy security in the long term.
Beyond the Ministry of Energy’s circulated measures, the Prime Minister has instructed, during the Cabinet meeting, that government agencies and state enterprises implement the following:
1) Immediately begin WFH measures for tasks that do not impact public service delivery.
2) Suspend overseas study tours or training, replacing them with domestic activities instead.