As the vibrant hum of Thailand’s economy gains momentum, fuel consumption has mirrored this uptick by increasing 2% in tangent with the projected 2.6% to 2.7% economic growth for 2024. The country’s affinity for energy is evident as daily fuel consumption averages a staggering 155 million litres, according to the Department of Energy Business’ latest figures covering January through November.
Among the soaring statistics, the gradual rise of petrol and gasohol usage, now at 31.5 million litres per day, has piqued considerable interest. This slight but notable spike can be attributed to evolving travel habits, as pinpointed by Sarawut Kaewtathip, director general of the department. Even more intriguing is the surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales, which have amplified by an impressive 5.39% in the passenger car sector, signifying a greener shift in the motoring landscape.
Not far behind in the spotlight are the mass transit systems, which are celebrating a remarkable renaissance with a 12.1% increase in ridership. Meanwhile, diesel remains indispensable for Thailand’s pulsating industrial beast and export enterprises, facilitating a 2.4% year-on-year hike in demand to 66.6 million litres per day. It’s the indomitable spirit of commerce and construction that keeps the diesel engines thundering, firmly establishing it as the backbone of heavy-duty operations.
Taking flight, the consumption of jet fuel has soared, registering an astounding 18.4% increase to reach 15.7 million litres daily. This spike has been buoyed by a resurgence in tourism, with a staggering 31.9 million international visitors alighting on Thai soil, reflecting a robust 28.2% rise year-on-year. Domestic travel is also on the upswing, noting an 8.6% uptick as locals explore the wonders of their own backyard.
On the home front, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) consumption has also experienced a favorable lift of 3.4%, now averaging 18.4 million kilogrammes per day. This growth echoes the increasing demand from households, the transport industry, and the petrochemical sector. From sizzling street-side delicacies to city cabs, LPG concretizes its role as a quintessential partner in everyday Thai life.
Conversely, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) encounters a downslide, with demand plummeting by 16.7% to 2.7 million kilogrammes per day. Despite price cuts by PTT Plc—the sole CNG distributor in Thailand—from July to December 2024, the depreciation in CNG-powered vehicles and a dwindling number of CNG stations have led to this slope in demand.
Amidst such energetic endeavors, Thailand’s oil imports have seen a modest 1.2% increase year-on-year, rounding up to a hefty 1.03 million barrels per day. And while imports climb at a deliberate pace, the export of refined oil is nothing short of brisk, with an impressive 4.4% upsurge to 186,067 barrels daily.
With the economy firing on all pistons and the tourism wave cresting high, Thailand’s fuel sector gears up for an increasingly dynamic landscape. As technology nudges Thailand towards a sleek, electrified future, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey through the energy corridors of the nation.
With so much fuel consumption, isn’t Thailand just contributing to global warming?
It’s not that simple. Increased fuel consumption may show economic growth. The challenge is balancing growth with sustainability.
That’s great and all, but when the planet’s underwater, will economic growth matter?
Exactly! Growth is essential, but we can’t ignore climate change.
Thailand should invest more in renewable energy options.
I’m happy to see the rise in EV sales. It’s a step towards a cleaner future.
EVs are great, but are they actually clean when most electricity is fossil-fueled?
That’s a point, but it’s better than doing nothing at all.
Thailand should also look into solar power for charging these EVs.
I’m curious if this level of tourism is sustainable for Thailand’s infrastructure.
It’s not just about infrastructure. What about the cultural impact of so many tourists?
Tourism is a major income source; they need to find ways to make it work.
Investing in better infrastructure could help manage the influx and preserve culture.
Why does no one point out the hypocrisy of these countries promoting tourism yet worrying about emissions?
The decline in CNG usage is alarming. It could mean more pollutants if people turn back to traditional fuels.
It’s probably because CNG isn’t as cost-effective as it used to be.
But reducing CNG might increase CO2 emissions. Challenges ahead!
Mass transit systems increase is great! Less individual cars means more sustainable cities.
Wow, it sounds like Thailand is heading in the right direction with economic growth. But I hope they’re cautious.
Doesn’t increasing fuel imports just increase dependence on other countries?
True, but it’s about having enough resources for their development, isn’t it?
That’s a risky game. Hopefully, more local sustainable energy will rise.
With the thriving petrochemical sector, LPG consumption up doesn’t surprise me, but what’s the long term impact?
Thailand should keep up the EV momentum; it’s the key to a sustainable economy.
I’m really concerned about all these fossil fuels still. The planet needs us to act now.
True, we can’t ignore immediate needs, though. Finding a balance is priority.
Balancing act is important, but let’s make sure the scales don’t tip too much in the wrong direction.
The tourism boom is exciting! I hope to visit Thailand soon.
Just remember to travel responsibly and respect the local culture and environment!