1 AIT Asian Institute of Technology

Business models for and barriers to scaling up rooftop solar photovoltaics in Thailand

AuthorBrandenberger, Franz
NoteA research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development
PublisherAsian Institute of Technology
AbstractThailand is ASEAN’s leading solar PV power, however so far the large majority of the total installed capacity consist of ground-mounted solar PV farms. While the former FiT programme for rooftop solar achieved some growth, today the main driving force is the commercial and industrial sector using business models based on self-consumption. However, Thailand’s new Power Development Plan sets a target of 100 MW to be bought from residential solar rooftop PV installations till end of the year. This research study conducted an analysis of the current state of the rooftop solar photovoltaic market through in-depth interviews with solar PV developers in Thailand to find suitable business models and necessary adjustments in the regulatory, nonregulatory and administrative environment needed to scale up rooftop solar PV in Thailand. The study found, that while the commercial and industrial sector will further grow, the current regulatory and non-regulatory incentive systems, as well as barriers within the application, approval and grid connection procedures, will make a reasonable growth of the residential rooftop PV sector difficult. A comprehensive regulatory policy and financial incentives, as well as a streamlined permitting and approval procedure, would enable the introduction of innovative business models to boost the residential sector.
Year2019
TypeResearch Study Project Report (RSPR)
SchoolSchool of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD)
DepartmentDepartment of Energy and Climate Change (Former title: Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Change (DEECC))
Academic Program/FoSEnvironmental Engineering and Management (EV)
Chairperson(s) Dhakal, Shobhakar ;
Examination Committee(s) Roy, Joyashree;Aumnad Phdungsil ;


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