MEA inks deal with BCPG to foster ‘prosumer’ solar power
The state-run Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) has teamed up with SET-listed BCPG Plc, a renewable energy firm, to study the feasibility of a power distribution system and the development of pilot solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftops in the next two years.
The two parties yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) as they prepare for the transformation of the power market in Thailand from traditional power generation by state-run utilities to a productionby-consumer (prosumer) system.
BCPG president Bundit Sapianchai said the prosumer model is set to enter the country’s power market soon because policymakers plan to launch the solar PV rooftop programme for general consumers by early next year.
Meanwhile, policymakers have already talked with several state-run utilities about preparing to launch the programme. Business model and investment conditions will be disclosed to the public soon.
“Under the MoU, the MEA has full infrastructure to support the solar PV rooftop programme, while BCPG has knowledge and blockchain technology to apply for the prosumer system,” Mr Bundit said.
MEA governor Chaiyong Puapongsakorn said the authority is focusing on energy storage technology in order to secure future power supply.
The MEA forecasts peer-to-peer (P2P) renewable energy trading to become a mainstream power generation system in the long run.
“Although it remains unclear how P2P and blockchain will be applied to the Thai power market, the MEA must prepare for this trend,” Mr Chaiyong said.
BCPG also has a strategic partner, Australian startup Power Ledger, which will bring P2P renewable energy trading to Thailand.
The T77 community on Sukhumvit Road is the first P2P project in Thailand and Asean. BCPG has been working with Power Ledger and property developer Sansiri, with operations set to begin in late August.
BCPG installs solar PV rooftops under the agreement and provides blockchain technology.
BCPG aims to add 100 megawatts to renewable power generation this year, up from 600MW.
Of the current capacity, BCPG has 400MW of renewable energy in operation and the remaining capacity under construction. Mr Chaiyong (right) and Mr Bundit make it official at yesterday’s signing ceremony.