BANGKOK, 11 March 2026 – Thailand has ordered government officials to adopt strict energy-saving measures, including working from home and using stairs instead of elevators, as the country responds to an emerging energy squeeze triggered by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The directive was issued by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who instructed civil servants across government agencies to immediately reduce energy consumption while ensuring that essential public services remain operational.
Remote Work Introduced to Cut Energy Demand
Under the new policy, many civil servants will work remotely from home, with exemptions granted for departments that must remain physically open to serve the public.
Authorities say the move is intended to reduce electricity consumption in government offices while lowering transportation fuel demand during a period of heightened energy uncertainty.
Officials have also been instructed to suspend overseas travel for government training or study programmes and instead conduct such activities domestically.
Unusual Measures: Use the Stairs
In addition to remote work, civil servants have been asked to avoid elevators and use stairs whenever possible, part of a broader campaign to conserve electricity across government buildings.
Other measures include:
- Setting air-conditioning temperatures between 26°C and 27°C
- Turning off lights and electronic equipment when not needed
- Wearing short-sleeved clothing instead of formal suits and ties to reduce cooling demand
Authorities are also encouraging the public to adopt energy-saving practices such as carpooling and limiting unnecessary electricity use.
Energy Concerns Linked to Middle East Conflict
The policy comes as Thailand faces growing energy uncertainty due to disruptions in global fuel markets caused by the Middle East conflict.
Thailand currently has around 95 days of energy reserves remaining, prompting the government to seek additional supplies of liquefied natural gas from countries including the United States, Australia and South Africa.
Natural gas accounts for about 68% of Thailand’s energy consumption, making the country particularly sensitive to fluctuations in global energy supply.
To conserve resources, Thailand has also suspended energy exports to most countries except Laos and Myanmar while reviewing further contingency plans.
More Measures Possible
Officials say additional restrictions could be introduced if the energy situation worsens. Potential steps include dimming commercial advertising lights and closing petrol stations earlier in the evening.
The government hopes the measures will reduce energy demand in the short term while longer-term supply arrangements are secured.
