Around the World in 80+ min with HIA in the Energy Sector - Session I, Presentation 2

HIA and Biomass energy development in Thailand


What role can HIA play in resolving the issues.

Power generation potential of agricultural residues in Thailand

  • Bagasse ( byproduct from sugar factories) 900MW
  • Rice husk
  • RIce Straw
  • Sugarcane residue
  • Oil palm
  • ...
 

  • Currently only 84 biomass power plants in Thailand, half the total potential capacity, 1,400MW installed capacity. Just under 6% of total electricity from all sources.
  • Over 300 biomass plants being planned.
  • Just under 80 projects withdrawn with 40 moved from small to very small facilities with 36 being abandoned.
  • Number of projects and installed capacity peaked in 2008 and has now declined sharply.
What caused the decline?

  • Public opposition is the biggest problem because of fears of environmental and health impacts, they don't trust government or the biomass companies, so they don't want these projects.
  • Concerns are air pollution, odour, noise, dust and traffic incidents and water resource and sanitation impacts.
  • Poor technology and gelatinous - direct-fired no gasification, no regulation for facilities below 10MW facilities.

 

Suggested role of HIA

  • Get the public involved
  • To identify impacts
  • Reduce conflict and create trust and cooperation
  • Help develop a healthy a healthy public policy.



 

 

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