The cabinet has agreed in principle with guidelines for government agencies to cut their electricity and oil consumption by 20% from April to September.
Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said the energy saving directive was set for implementation in the second half of fiscal 2022. The new fiscal year starts in October.
Under the resolution, government agencies will form working internal groups to formulate energy saving plans.
The Energy Ministry has recommended the following measures be immediately applied:
For electricity saving, government organisations should turn on air-conditioners only from 8.30am to 4.30pm and set the temperature at 25-26C. They should also opt for LED lamps and campaign for the use of staircases instead of elevators, which will be programmed to stop only at even- or odd-numbered floors.
For oil saving, government organisations should emphasise online meetings and the use of emails to reduce trips.
Where possible, the agencies should prioritise the use of government vehicles which run on gasohol or biodiesel and subject them to regular maintenance so they run smoothly.
Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration yesterday asked Bangkok residents to turn off lights for one hour in the evening of March 26 as part of efforts to combat global warming.