EGAT gears up for construction of Krabi power plant

BANGKOK, Feb 18 (TNA) -- The state-run Electricity Generating of Thailand (EGAT) will now start constructing a controversial coal-powered plant in the southern province of Krabi after the approval is given by the National Energy Policy Committee (NEPC), said Saharat Boonpotipukdee, a deputy governor of EGAT. In line with the national electricity development plan for 2015-2036, the NEPC, chaired by Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha, on Friday gave the green light to build the 800-megawatt electricity plant despite strong protests by people in Krabi on worries over impact on environment and tourism business in the province. Mr Saharat said EGAT from now on will start construction of the power plant by strictly following the country’s law and also allowing the people to participate so that they would understand and accept the project, he said. A study is being made on the Environment and Health Impact Assessment report and if approval is made, it will be sent to the cabinet for consideration, he said. (TNA)