ENERGY CONSERVATION POLICY IN THAILAND: PERCEIVED EFFECTIVENESS OF POLICY IMPLEMENTATION

Abstract

The objectives of this study are: (1) to assess the effectiveness of energy conservation policy implementation by considering whether the policy to promote energy conservation activities has achieved its objectives and intended outcome, (2) to investigate the factors affecting the effectiveness of energy conservation policy implementation , and (3) to propose policy measures and policy alternatives that promote effective policy implementation. Path analysis technique with stepwise regression was a statistical technique employed for data analysis. The research results responding to the above objectives revealed that: 1. The designated factories have implemented approximately 40% of the energy conservation activities prescribed by the act, including assigning a person responsible for energy (PRE), submitting energy consumption data twice a year, conducting preliminary energy audits and submitting reports to DEDP (Department of Energy Development and Promotion). Delays in implementation are caused from the implementing agency (DEDP), whether in forms of report approval delay or of fund disbursement delay. (2) of the ten proposed factors, eight affect the effectiveness of policy implementation, namely supporting fund, technical support, policy knowledge and experience, external impact, compliance limitations, compliance ability, and degree of compliance with the policy. Among the eight factors found to influence the effective policy implementation, supporting fund, is the most significant factor. The study suggest that to attain policy implementation effectiveness, the government should strengthen the compliance ability of the factories by providing higher amounts in supporting funds and additional technical support. These kinds of support will enhance the financial capability and human capability of the factories and also lessen compliance limitations.

Keywords: Policy implementation, Energy conservation, Policy effectiveness

For full Paper: fmscresearch@sjp.ac.lk