Renewable energy development and environmental justice in Thailand : case studies of biomass energy projects in Roi-Et and Suphanburi province

Abstract

This thesis examines the development of biomass energy projects in Thailand from the perspective of environmental justice. Thailand has allowed private power producers to generate energy from biomass, an important source of renewable energy, in order to increase energy security and to reduce CO2 emissions. However, some biomass projects in Thailand have resulted in negative environmental impacts and social problems, such as air pollution and health problems for villagers near the projects, and thus result in environmental injustices. Applying the concept of environmental justice, the thesis assesses conditions that ensure environmental justice in biomass power projects in Thailand. A case study was carried out using a qualitative methodology to collect data during field research conducted in Roi-Et and Suphanburi provinces in June 2013. This thesis points out firstly, that renewable energy generation is not always free of negative impacts to the environment and nearby communities. Secondly, construction including technology utilization and operational standards depend on the will of private companies due to loopholes in Thai policies and regulations. Lastly, the thesis argues that problems were not adequately addressed in the case in Roi-Et province because of the limited accountability of the business sector and provincial administrative government, as well as the limited influence of Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs) such as the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) and Tambon Administrative Organization (TAO).