The Energy Ministry conducted an on-site inspection of a large Data Center in the Rama 9 area and discovered an illegal stockpile of over 200,000 liters of diesel fuel for emergency power generation, preparing to file criminal charges.
On 2 September 2026, Ms. Thitiphat Chotidechachainan, Secretary to the Minister of Energy, inspected the Data Center building on Rama 9 Road next to Rama 9 Hospital after receiving complaints from residents and nearby shop owners. They reported enduring a strong fuel-like odor for more than two months, especially during heavy rain when the smell worsened, causing symptoms such as dizziness and vomiting. There were also concerns about potential explosion hazards due to the densely populated community.
The Energy Business Department's investigation found that the project, a joint venture between an Eastern country and Thai investors, had secretly installed tanks storing up to 200,000 liters of diesel fuel for emergency generators without the required operating license. Officials immediately ordered the removal of all fuel from the site. Follow-up inspections showed the tanks had been emptied, leaving only some residual traces. On 3 September, the department will file a criminal complaint under Section 65 of the Fuel Control Act B.E. 2542 (1999), which carries penalties of up to two years imprisonment, a fine up to 200,000 baht, or both.
Ms. Thitiphat emphasized that the Energy Ministry, together with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, has a clear policy to "not permit" any establishment of fuel storage sites for emergency generator reserves for Data Centers within urban community areas. At the upcoming Data Center Committee meeting on Friday, 4 September, the ministry will propose that the National Economic and Social Development Council, BMA, the Electricity Authority, and the Waterworks Authority expedite creating zoning guidelines and reviewing building, environmental, and public safety controls. Operators are also advised to postpone projects until new criteria are finalized.