The government’s programme to promote renewable energy will drive the demand for solar energy to 250 megawatts in 2010 from just six MW in 2003, reports The Bangkok Post (February 7). Currently, renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower and biomass represent less than a 1% share of fuel used in electricity generation, despite being abundant. The government’s energy conservation plan aims to increase the share of renewable energy to 8% by 2011 and requires that 5% of the energy from new power facilities be generated from renewable sources. The government is to provide incentives for the purchase of power generated by renewable energy such as tax credits and privileges, and capital subsidies. The Thai Board of Investment has designated solar cell manufacturing as a specially promoted industry.