Thailand's Data Center Push Faces 7 Questions Amid Public Burden Concerns

As Thailand actively promotes investment in data centers, Korn Chatikavanij, a Member of Parliament and Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, has voiced significant concerns, posing seven critical questions to the government regarding potential negative impacts on the public and the nation. While acknowledging the government's initiative to establish a data center committee, Mr. Korn highlighted the lack of clarity surrounding regulatory oversight and benefits for citizens. He expressed particular apprehension about projects bypassing environmental impact assessments (EIA), the strain on energy and water resources, and geopolitical risks associated with US export controls on semiconductors to China. Korn pointed out the potential for increased data center electricity demand to heighten reliance on fossil fuels, consequently affecting citizens' electricity tariffs (Ft). He also raised concerns about the impact of substantial water usage on local communities and agricultural water supplies. Furthermore, he questioned the lack of a clear roadmap for enhancing Thailand's domestic technological capabilities and ensuring Thai entrepreneurs and startups benefit from these infrastructure developments. He also addressed the US government's concerns that Thailand might be used as a conduit for China to access advanced semiconductors, framing it as an issue critical to Thailand's technological self-reliance and international credibility, demanding prompt governmental action. Quoting, "The cow has not yet escaped, so it is not too late to build a pen now," Mr. Korn urged the government to establish clear policies that minimize burdens on citizens while genuinely benefiting Thai industries and the overall economy. Source: INN News