Thai Energy Min increases fuel reserves ahead of energy production halt

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Min of Energy increases fuel reserves ahead of energy production halt



BANGKOK, 16 March 2016 (NNT) - The Ministry of Energy has prepared for reduced energy production in April, when the Zawtika gas field that supplies Thailand temporarily suspends operations.

Energy Minister Gen Anantaporn Kanjanarat explained that Thailand imports a large amount of gas and therefore risks an energy shortage if any of its foreign suppliers cease operations.

The Energy Minister has cited the need for a contingency plan. The Zawtika gas field in Myanmar will close for annual maintenance from March 18 - 29, during which time Thailand will be short of around 640 million cubic feet of natural gas per day.

Gen Anantaporn has instructed operators of natural gas fields in Thailand to maintain production during this period. Reserves of various types of fuel have been increased in case of emergency demand.

Suthon Boonprasong, Deputy Governor of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand's Transmission System, said energy consumption in Thailand will likely peak at 28,000 megawatts in April, or around 1,000 megawatts higher than last year. He is confident there will be enough electricity for domestic consumption.


-- NNT 2016-03-16