Electricity consumption in Thailand:

  • Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT): Produces electricity
  • Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA): Distributes electricity in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan
  • Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA): Distributes electricity in other provinces

Installing Solar Rooftop to generate electricity for household use in a parallel electrical system requires permission from these agencies to ensure the safety of the equipment and installation.

Types of solar cell systems:

  • On-Grid System: Uses electricity from solar panels and the grid. Does not require batteries. Requires permission from the electricity authority.
  • Off-Grid System: Does not use electricity from the grid. Suitable for remote areas. Does not require permission from the electricity authority.
  • Hybrid System: Combines on-grid and off-grid systems. Uses electricity from the grid, solar panels, and batteries. Requires permission from the electricity authority.

In summary, the solar cell systems that require permission are the On-Grid and Hybrid systems.

Application process:

1. Apply for permission or notify the local government agency.

  • Documents must be reviewed and certified by a civil engineer with a Gw. license.

Required documents:

  • For installation area over 160 square meters or total weight over 20 kilograms per square meter: Submit a building alteration permit to apply for building renovation (Form A.1)
  • For installation area not over 160 square meters and total weight not over 20 kilograms per square meter: Submit a notification form

After submitting the documents, you will receive proof of permission and can install solar cells.

2. Apply for an exemption from the license requirement from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

  • For solar cell installations with a capacity less than 1000 kVA or approximately 800 kW:
    • Apply at the ERC office
    • Apply online at www.cleanenergyforlife.net

Upon completion, you will receive a letter stating that the energy business is exempted from the need to apply for a license from the ERC office.

3. Apply for parallel connection to the grid with the local electricity authority.

Apply online through the websites of:

  • Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA): www.mea.or.th
  • Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA): www.pea.co.th

Required documents:

  • Power of attorney (if the solar cell installation company is applying for the permit on your behalf)
  • Photographs showing the equipment, panels, and inverters
  • Building alteration permit to apply for building renovation (Form A.1)
  • Structural installation plan reviewed by a civil engineer
  • Single Line Diagram certified by a civil engineer
  • Details, model, and brand of solar panels and inverters (Specification)
  • Mini COP Checklist for Design and Installation Measures in Accordance with the Code of Practice

Applying for a solar cell installation permit can take up to 6 months or more, and you will need to prepare a lot of documentation.

Currently, there is a growing popularity for IMI Industries to oversee the design and installation of solar cells in the industrial sector.

If you are interested in installation, you can contact us at www.imi-industries.com