BANGKOK: Thailand's government is advancing its Green Hospital policy by promoting clean and renewable energy in public health facilities to reduce operating costs, improve energy efficiency and support the country's greenhouse gas reduction goals, Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana said on Monday (June 22).
As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) have signed an agreement to install solar rooftop systems at hospitals overseen by the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Public Health. The pilot phase will include 25 hospitals nationwide.
Hospitals under the MOPH operate 24 hours a day and have high electricity demand. Solar rooftop systems are expected to reduce long-term expenses and enhance energy security for these facilities.
The 25 pilot hospitals are projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7,211 tons of carbon per year, and are expected to save over 55 million baht (about US$1.67 million) in annual electricity costs, Lalida said.
Minister of Public Health Pattana Promphat stated that the government is working to strengthen national energy security and promote economic and environmental sustainability. The Ministry is also advancing its Net Zero MOPH policy to make healthcare facilities more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient.
Deputy Minister of Interior Polapee Suwunchwee stated that PEA will provide comprehensive solar rooftop management, including design, installation and maintenance, to ensure safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The spokesperson emphasised that adopting renewable energy in the public sector must provide tangible public benefits without causing financial strain.
She said the administration plans to expand the solar rooftop project to all MOPH hospitals nationwide, supporting sustainable operations, enhancing public health services, and advancing the country's progress toward carbon neutrality. - Xinhua
