In a picturesque land where vibrant cultures meet stunning landscapes, Thailand experienced an interesting wave in its energy consumption dynamics, reflecting the bustling pulse of its tourism-driven economy. Against the backdrop of a modest GDP growth of 2.6-2.7%, fuel consumption surged by 2.1% in the past year, marking an average daily usage of 155.4 million liters. The wind beneath Thailand’s economic wings, however, was undoubtedly its thriving tourism industry, marking an enthralling narrative woven with travelers from across the globe flocking to its inviting shores.
The year 2023 saw a slight contraction in the overall fuel consumption, settling at 152.3 million liters per day, yet the impact of tourism could not be understated. Jet fuel, the lifeblood of soaring air travel, soared even higher with an audacious 18.3% increase, reaching 16.2 million liters daily. This leap was fuelled by a heartwarming swell in both domestic and international transport, as noted by Sarawut Kaewtathip, the insightful director-general of the Department of Energy Business. A staggering figure of over 35 million international tourists painted Thailand’s canvas last year, blending with a delightful 6.8% increase in domestic travels fueled by enticing tourism promotion campaigns.
Diesel fuel wasn’t left out of this vibrant tapestry. Its consumption rose by 2.2% to 66.7 million liters per day, steered by the bustling vehicle of tourism, strategic government stimulus measures, and a savvy retail diesel price cap keeping rates gracefully under 33 baht per liter. Meanwhile, petrol and its ethanol-infused cousin, gasohol, rested at a consistent 31.65 million liters daily, showing a graceful dip of a mere 0.01% from previous figures. A delicate nuance amidst the robust scene, as noted by the keen eyes of the Bangkok Post.
Yet, the horizon of energy consumption is poised for transformative shifts, driven by the electric dreams zipping across Thailand’s roads. The uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) has quietly gained traction, promising a steady decrescendo in petrol and gasohol consumption. As the tunes of battery EVs, hybrid EVs, and plug-in hybrid EVs echo through the streets alongside an expanding public transport system, the evolution of energy landscapes is inevitable. Last year, registrations of compact passenger cars increased modestly by 5.3%, while public transport ridership enjoyed a hearty leap of 11%.
The realm of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) joined the fray with a 3.7% increase, reaching 18.3 million kilograms per day. Leading this symphony was the petrochemical sector, followed closely by household consumption, transport mainly via taxis, and diverse industrial applications. Nevertheless, the tale of compressed natural gas (CNG) presented a different melody, with a stark 16.5% decline in consumption, underscoring a decline in CNG-powered vehicles and fueling stations.
As oil danced its way through world pipelines, Thailand saw a gentle 0.9% decline in imports of crude oil, LPG, and refined oil, tallying at 1.024 million barrels per day. However, exports of refined oil pirouetted upwards by 1.5%, yielding an impressive 17.8 billion baht monthly, illustrating Thailand’s robust energy market engagement.
Amidst these riveting tales of energy and economics, recent news from Thailand adds a beating heart to the narrative. Headline after headline paints vivid stories of triumphs and tribulations. From Thailand leading the ASEAN dairy market to dramatic episodes like discoveries of contaminated durians curbing exports, and bold future ventures like Thai Airways boosting its fleet, every piece threads into the colorful quilt that is Thailand today. As the country forges ahead, these narratives continue to shape its vibrant, ever-evolving identity in a world that never sleeps.
It’s fascinating to see Thailand’s focus on EVs. Does this mean there will be a significant shift towards reducing carbon emissions soon?
I’m skeptical. EVs are great, but the infrastructure isn’t ready!
Good point! But we have to start somewhere. Investments in infrastructure are crucial.
EV adoption needs time. Changing the energy landscape is a slow process.
Yay for tourism! I’m planning my next trip to Thailand. I hope the rise in visitors won’t hurt their beautiful landscapes.
Tourism is a double-edged sword – helps the economy, but can harm the environment.
True, but I think responsible travel practices can mitigate damage.
Totally agree, we need sustainable tourism before the beaches are ruined.
Interesting numbers but let’s not forget, oil is still king.
For now maybe, but innovation will change that. Oil’s days are numbered.
Keep dreaming! There’s a reason oil has powered the world for over a century.
Kind of scary how much jet fuel is being used just because of tourism. Climate change is real, people!
But don’t people’s livelihoods depend on tourism in Thailand?
Absolutely, but we need to strike a balance that preserves the planet too.
Responsible policies can both sustain tourism and protect our environment.
Did anyone else notice the slight decline in fuel consumption in 2023? Seems promising!
Promises are nice, but without action, they’re just empty words. We need concrete plans.
Yes! Actionable steps are crucial, and hopefully, EVs are part of that plan.
The rise in oil exports is cool and all, but aren’t we supposed to be moving away from fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels still make a lot of money. It’s a hard transition.
True, but think of the long-term environmental cost versus the short-term economic gain.
Hearing jet fuel consumption is through the roof because of tourism worries me. Can’t we find better options that don’t pollute so much?
Sustainable aviation fuels are being developed. We just need broader adaptation.
That’s hopeful! Fingers crossed they become mainstream fast.
LPG use is up—it’s interesting how different fuel sources are trending.
LPG’s versatility makes it appealing for various sectors, but it’s not the ultimate green solution.
Sure, but it does offer some transitional benefits towards cleaner energy.
Thailand’s energy trends show a nuanced dance between old and new energies—fascinating!
Every transition starts like this, with overlaps. History is repeating itself.
I don’t think EVs will take over that easily. You need petrol for real driving pleasure!
Technology will overthrow older energy forms. It’s only a matter of time before EVs rule the roads!
Economy and environment need to be allies, not opponents—Thailand is trying, but many barriers exist.
Thailand’s GDP isn’t in tandem with its energy trends. They’re relying heavily on tourism and oil exports!
Domestic transport increase? I love seeing locals enjoy their own country!