BANGKOK: Thailand is stepping up efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector by promoting renewable fuels such as biodiesel and biogas alongside its growing electric vehicle programme, CTN News reported.
The government is seeking to reduce the transport sector’s reliance on petroleum fuels while strengthening energy security and creating additional demand for domestic agricultural resources.
Biodiesel remains a key transport fuel
Biodiesel continues to play an important role in Thailand’s renewable-fuel strategy. Produced from feedstocks such as vegetable oils, animal fats and used cooking oil, it offers an alternative to conventional diesel and is particularly relevant for Thailand’s agriculture-based economy.
The Energy Ministry says biodiesel has properties similar to conventional diesel and can be used in compatible diesel vehicles without major engine modifications.
Thailand has promoted biodiesel for several years to reduce petroleum consumption. In March 2026, the government announced plans to encourage alternative diesel fuels, including B10 and B20, as part of a shift from the earlier B7 standard.
B20 contains a higher share of biodiesel and can therefore increase demand for renewable fuel while reducing the petroleum component in diesel. The government has also highlighted the potential of biodiesel to reduce certain pollutants and visible smoke from diesel engines.
Biogas adds a waste-to-energy option
Thailand is also developing biogas as another renewable energy source, particularly by utilising agricultural waste, livestock manure, industrial wastewater and other organic materials.
Through anaerobic digestion, organic waste can be converted into biogas containing around 50-70% methane, with most of the remainder consisting of carbon dioxide.
The approach provides Thailand with an opportunity to address waste management while producing domestic energy. Biogas from farms, food-processing facilities, factories and communities can be used for energy generation and, where economically viable, upgraded for other applications.
Government climate and renewable-energy policies recognise biogas, biomass and waste as potential substitutes for fossil fuels.
However, biogas is unlikely to replace diesel across Thailand’s entire transport sector in the near term. Its potential is stronger in applications where locally available organic waste can be efficiently converted into renewable energy.
Renewable fuels complement EV transition
Thailand’s renewable-fuel strategy is being pursued alongside its expanding electric vehicle sector. Biodiesel, biogas and other renewable fuels can help reduce fossil-fuel consumption in segments of transport that remain dependent on internal-combustion engines.
The combined approach is aimed at lowering emissions, reducing oil dependence and making greater use of domestic agricultural and waste resources as Thailand moves towards its longer-term low-carbon and net-zero objectives.
