The Department of Energy Business (DOEB) has initiated the establishment of national standards for electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen fuel infrastructure to streamline investment and ensure safety during Thailand's transition to clean energy.

Sarawut Kaewtathip, Director-General of the DOEB, stated that the initiative seeks to establish a unified safety protocol and a single standard for alternative fuels.

The measure is intended to improve service accessibility for drivers and provide clarity for investors entering the downstream energy sector.

Officials stated that the approach is designed to prevent fragmentation similar to that seen in the mobile phone industry, where different manufacturers previously used incompatible charging connectors before the adoption of USB Type-C.

"We do not want the adoption of alternative energy to be as inconvenient as mobile phone chargers," Mr. Sarawut stated.

In January, the DOEB announced that new standards for the installation of EV charging stations at petrol stations would take effect in April.

The guidelines set out design and installation requirements, including the installation of emergency switches to cut power during accidents, and define the approval process across relevant agencies.

A working group has been established to oversee licensing and standardisation.

The measure follows the resolution of August 2021 issued by the National Energy Policy Council to promote EV investment.

Under the "30@30" policy, Thailand targets EVs to account for 30% of total automobile production by 2030.

In December 2025, total passenger car production increased by 18% year-on-year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries.

New registrations of battery EVs rose by 52.7% year-on-year, according to the Department of Land Transport.

Hydrogen fuel is also undergoing regulatory development. Currently in a sandbox phase led by private investors, hydrogen infrastructure is expected to be incorporated into the Fuel Control Act, covering storage depots and transport systems.

Draft legislation is planned for fiscal years 2026-2027 to define hydrogen-related businesses, including pipelines and service stations.

Despite challenges, including high production costs and infrastructure requirements, the DOEB considers hydrogen part of Thailand's energy policy framework. These measures are linked to the country's target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.