Ratchada emphasized that after Parliament approved the borrowing decree, the government is immediately moving forward with 200 billion baht for the energy transition, stating, "No excessive borrowing, no blank checks." Every baht has a clear purpose and truly benefits the public.
On 27 Aug 2026, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that following the House of Representatives' meeting on 26 Aug 2026 approving the Royal Decree granting the Ministry of Finance the authority to borrow up to 400 billion baht to address energy crisis impacts and support the country's energy transition, the government is ready to proceed under the legal framework, assuring that every baht spent has clear objectives, is cost-effective, transparent, and accountable.
Regarding the second plan within the 200 billion baht framework to restructure and drive the country's energy transition, the government has pre-established screening criteria. The Loan Spending Screening Committee (LSSC) approved the conceptual framework, criteria, and project evaluation guidelines to ensure funds are invested in initiatives yielding tangible results — including reducing fossil fuel dependence, increasing renewable energy, developing power grids, improving energy efficiency, promoting clean vehicles, and developing workforce skills for the new energy industry.
Importantly, the government has clearly defined a Negative List. Projects seeking loan funds must not involve hiring consultants for research, study tours, or overseas travel; nor be used to purchase materials or equipment for direct distribution to citizens. Purchases must not be fragmented or duplicated with the annual budget or other funding sources. All must meet standards and technical specifications to ensure the investments are usable and maintainable efficiently over the long term.
The investment framework is divided into three main areas: 1) reducing fossil fuel use and increasing renewable energy, including power grid and energy management technology development; 2) promoting environmentally friendly vehicles such as electric vehicles (EVs), clean energy EV charging stations and swapping stations, and enhancing logistics efficiency; and 3) developing people and jobs to support the new energy economy through upskilling/reskilling—such as solar panel installation and maintenance technicians, EV maintenance technicians—as well as supporting innovations that can be practically applied or commercially expanded.
"This decree is not about borrowing large sums to sit idle, nor issuing blank checks for agencies to use without limits. Every baht has a target, criteria, and must deliver measurable results. Regarding the energy transition goals, this investment aims to reduce Thailand's reliance on foreign energy, improve energy efficiency, and create new jobs and careers for Thai people within the clean energy economy," Ms. Ratchada said.
Additionally, loan allocation requests must specify clear goals and success indicators aligned with the plan's objectives and scope. The Budget Bureau will adjust the request system under the New e-Budgeting platform according to the LSSC's criteria.