The NESDC Secretary-General points out that the 400 billion baht loan decree, if the latter 200 billion baht is properly used focusing on energy conservation, will improve the overall national economy.
At 10:30 a.m. on 10 Jul 2026, at the new Sadao Customs Checkpoint Reception Building in Songkhla Province, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), commented on the Constitutional Court's ruling that the 400 billion baht loan decree does not violate the constitution. He said the ruling is positive, allowing preparations to proceed as planned. Despite the ceasefire agreement signed between the U.S. and Iran, uncertainty remains, so close monitoring is necessary. Thailand must prepare to mitigate risks associated with energy prices.
When asked how the latter 200 billion baht for energy transition will be effectively used, Mr. Danucha said there have been discussions to support citizens installing solar panels to reduce monthly electricity costs. The specific formats and methods are still under discussion. He emphasized the focus must remain on energy conservation. Regarding the Ministry of Transport's project to support the transition to electric vehicles, clear discussions on the approach are needed first. He acknowledged that trading in old cars for new ones has limitations since it is unclear how the old vehicles would be used, so alternative solutions must be found.
Regarding concerns raised by Ms. Sirikanya Tansakul, Deputy Leader and party-list MP of the People's Party, about the Ministry of Interior's project to use electric garbage trucks, electric ambulances, and solar-powered water pumps for agriculture—whether these qualify as emergency budget spending under the loan decree's intent—Mr. Danucha said that while state projects are part of it, the main focus should be on helping the public reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Further examination of implementation methods is necessary.
Regarding proposals to use the budget to develop a smart grid or intelligent power network, Mr. Danucha said this project is already underway and preparations are in place. However, it cannot use funds from this loan decree because the money must be spent by September 2027 fiscal year-end. The smart grid is a long-term project that requires investment through the three state electricity authorities as state enterprises, and such investment budgets must be approved by the Cabinet, which takes time.
When asked whether the loan decree funds will boost GDP growth this year, Mr. Danucha expressed confidence that the budget will stabilize the domestic economy and increase private sector confidence. Therefore, he believes the overall economy will improve, but it depends on whether the latter 200 billion baht budget can be disbursed effectively and targeted.