EGAT:Thailand escapes energy crisis

BANGKOK, April 15 (TNA) - The state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) says that the Kingdom has safely escaped a feared energy crisis, thanks to nationwide energy-saving campaigns and lower-than-expected temperatures, as well as Myanmar's resumption of gas supply earlier than scheduled. EGAT Governor Sutas Patamasiriwat confirmed on Sunday that Myanmar's maintenance of its Yadana gas field has been complete and the neighbouring country has resumed its gas supply to Thailand since late April 12, some 30 hours before schedule. Sutas reported that there was no power blackout during Myanmar's suspension of its gas supply to Thailand, from April 5-12, which cut the country's gas supply by 1,1 billion cubic feet a day, thanks to cooperation on energy saving from all parties and the lower-than-expected temperatures with scattered and heavy downpours in some areas. According to the EGAT governor, 86.22 million litres of bunker oil and 38.80 million litres of diesel were use in lieu of natural gas during the 8-day gas suspension period by Myanmar.(TNA)