Renewable energy transition towards Krabi’s sustainable energy

Abstract

The present study was conducted with an aim to investigate Krabi's electricity outlook, renewable energy transition timeline, and potential of renewable energy resources, key drivers, barriers, and challenges towards Krabi's sustainable energy. Guideline as well as policy recommendation for successful renewable energy transition was also developed. The study found that Krabi's electricity demand has continuously increasing and tends to increase up to 320 MW by the year 2037. Meanwhile, electricity supply has still relied on national grid since 1995. Meanwhile, Krabi Goes Green which is a provincial roadmap has set a target to be self-reliance and all electricity supply would be 100% renewable energy by 2026. This target is challenging and need actively implementation.

National Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP) as well as Krabi Goes Green Roadmap are key drivers for Krabi's renewable energy transition towards sustainable energy. Even though high potential of renewable energy resources has been reported, the domestic installed renewable energy power plants, gradually installed since 2007, can supply only about half of its annual demand. This is due to various barriers and obstacles to be overcome. Challenges or key success recommendation for each RE are briefly described. In case of biomass and biogas power plants, reconsideration of power purchasing policy is recommended which is green energy without combustion pollutants and also contributes large opportunity for GHGs mitigation. The solar PV case, revision of quota for solar rooftop equipment is highly recommend due to green energy without combustion pollutants and no more incentive need due to disruptive factor on rapidly price lowering of solar panel and equipment. By the way, the study found that waste-to-energy (WtE) power plant would be the first priority due to high potential and severe impacts on both environment and human health. Policy integration among relevant agencies as well as fair compensation for community around waste landfill sites and the WtE power plants should be sincerely consideration.