Business
ERC Considers 31% Electricity Tariff Increase Despite Drop in Fuel Costs
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is contemplating a significant hike in Thailand’s electricity tariff, potentially increasing costs for households and businesses by as much as 31%. Despite forecasts of lower fuel costs, the ERC’s decision will address financial losses tied to previous subsidies, aiming to stabilize the electricity system.
Key Factors Behind the Proposed Tariff Increase
The Current Tariff and Expected Adjustments
The current tariff, at 4.18 baht per kilowatt-hour, remains in place until December 31. The ERC has launched an online survey to gather public opinion, and the results will influence the final rate to be announced for the January-April 2025 billing period. The potential rate changes aim to address financial strains on the system, particularly debts accrued by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and PTT Plc.
EGAT’s Financial Strain and the Subsidy Program
EGAT incurred considerable losses due to earlier price subsidy programs, which kept electricity costs low. The debt to EGAT and PTT has grown due to their sales of natural gas below market rates, an effort that previously helped stabilize electricity prices for Thai consumers but has now led to a heavy financial burden.
The Impact of Natural Gas Prices on Power Costs
Natural Gas as Thailand’s Primary Energy Source
Natural gas, which constitutes around 60% of Thailand’s power generation, is sourced both locally and through LNG imports. While the LNG spot market prices are expected to dip slightly, this decrease will have limited impact on overall electricity bills due to the need to recover past financial losses.
Potential for Increased Domestic Gas Production
There is potential to increase gas production from the Gulf of Thailand, which could be more cost-effective than importing LNG. However, the debt owed to EGAT and PTT hampers the ability to lower tariffs, keeping pressure on consumer electricity costs.
Three Proposed Options for Adjusting the Electricity Tariff
Option 1: A 31% Increase
Under the first option, the ERC proposes a 31% increase, raising the tariff to 5.49 baht per unit. This option would allow full repayment of EGAT’s 85.2 billion baht debt by April 2025 and settle gas sales debt of 15 billion baht, easing financial pressure on the energy sector.
Option 2: A 26% Increase
A more moderate 26% increase would bring the tariff to 5.26 baht per unit, allowing the ERC to settle only the debt owed to EGAT. This option would address some financial strains while being less burdensome to consumers than the full increase.
Option 3: Maintaining the Current Tariff
The third option would maintain the current rate of 4.18 baht per unit, benefiting consumers in the short term. However, this option would only permit partial repayment of 15 billion baht to EGAT, leaving a significant portion of the debt unresolved and potentially impacting the long-term stability of the electricity system.
Public Input and the Path Forward for Thailand’s Energy Sector
The ERC is inviting the public to share their views on these three options through its website, with feedback open until November 22. The decision will likely reflect a balance between consumer affordability and the financial health of Thailand’s energy infrastructure.
Conclusion: Balancing Affordability and Energy Stability
As Thailand navigates the challenge of rising electricity costs, the ERC’s final decision will be crucial. Balancing the need for financial stability with consumer affordability, this tariff decision could shape the future of the nation’s energy landscape and the economic well-being of Thai households and businesses.
Ref- Thaiger
Business
Google AdX Business: Maximizing Revenue with Programmatic Advertising
Google Ad Exchange (AdX) is a leading platform that empowers publishers and advertisers to connect through programmatic advertising. By offering advanced tools and extensive reach, Google AdX helps businesses maximize ad revenue while providing advertisers with premium inventory access.
What is Google AdX?
Google AdX, short for Google Ad Exchange, is a programmatic advertising platform where publishers can sell their ad inventory to advertisers in real time. Unlike Google AdSense, which caters to smaller publishers, AdX focuses on premium inventory and larger-scale publishers.
Key Features of Google AdX
- Programmatic Advertising: Automated buying and selling of ad space.
- Premium Inventory: High-quality ad placements for advertisers.
- Real-Time Bidding (RTB): Competitive bidding for ad slots in real time.
- Advanced Targeting: Tools to reach the right audience effectively.
Benefits of Using Google AdX for Businesses
1. Higher Revenue Potential
Google AdX enables publishers to maximize their revenue through:
- Real-time competition among advertisers.
- Premium rates for high-quality inventory.
2. Access to Premium Advertisers
AdX connects publishers with top-tier advertisers, ensuring high-quality ads that resonate with the audience.
3. Enhanced Ad Management
With tools like Ad Manager, publishers can:
- Monitor ad performance.
- Optimize inventory allocation.
- Set rules for ad delivery and pricing.
4. Advanced Analytics
Google AdX offers detailed insights into:
- Audience behavior.
- Ad performance metrics.
- Revenue trends.
5. Better User Experience
AdX supports high-quality, non-intrusive ads that improve user engagement and minimize ad fatigue.
How to Get Started with Google AdX
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Google AdX, publishers typically need:
- A high volume of traffic.
- Premium-quality content.
- Adherence to Google’s policies.
2. Partner with a Google Certified Partner
Most publishers access Google AdX through a Google Certified Partner. These partners help:
- Set up your account.
- Manage ad placements.
- Optimize revenue strategies.
3. Integrate Google Ad Manager
Google Ad Manager acts as the gateway to AdX, providing tools for:
- Inventory management.
- Ad campaign tracking.
- Optimizing yield through multiple ad networks.
Google AdX vs. Google AdSense
1. Target Audience
- AdSense: Best for small to medium-sized publishers.
- AdX: Designed for large-scale publishers with premium inventory.
2. Revenue Model
- AdSense: Fixed CPC and CPM rates.
- AdX: Real-time bidding for higher revenue opportunities.
3. Inventory Control
- AdSense: Limited control over ad placements.
- AdX: Full control with advanced targeting and pricing options.
SEO Best Practices for Maximizing AdX Revenue
1. Optimize Website Speed
A fast-loading website ensures better user engagement and ad visibility. Use tools like:
- Google PageSpeed Insights.
- GTmetrix.
2. Focus on High-Quality Content
Engage users with valuable, original content that attracts organic traffic and premium advertisers.
3. Improve Mobile Friendliness
Ensure your site is mobile-optimized, as most traffic now comes from mobile devices.
4. Use Effective Ad Placement
Strategic ad placements increase visibility and CTR without compromising user experience.
5. Regularly Monitor Analytics
Track your AdX performance with Google Analytics and Ad Manager to identify areas for improvement.
Challenges of Google AdX
1. Strict Eligibility Criteria
Small publishers may find it challenging to meet Google AdX’s requirements.
2. Complex Management
Managing AdX requires advanced tools and expertise, making it essential to partner with professionals.
3. Competition
Real-time bidding means advertisers bid for the same inventory, which can sometimes lead to inconsistent earnings.
Conclusion
Google AdX is a powerful tool for publishers aiming to maximize ad revenue through programmatic advertising. By offering access to premium inventory, advanced analytics, and real-time bidding, AdX ensures businesses achieve higher engagement and profitability. However, leveraging AdX effectively requires strategic planning, adherence to policies, and a focus on delivering high-quality content.
For publishers ready to scale their digital advertising efforts, Google AdX represents a gateway to greater revenue and enhanced audience engagement.If you want to research more , go to Adx Blog .
Business
10 In-Demand Careers for 2025: Future Proof Your Career
Exploring the Future Job Market: Top Careers to Consider
As we approach 2025, the job market is undergoing significant changes driven by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and evolving consumer needs. According to the World Economic Forum, while approximately 85 million jobs may be replaced by machines, an estimated 97 million new roles are set to emerge. This article highlights ten in-demand careers that are expected to thrive in the coming years.
Key Factors Driving Job Growth
The demand for skilled professionals is being fueled by several key trends, including the rise of digital technology, the need for data analysis, and a growing focus on sustainability. Understanding these trends can help job seekers target their career paths effectively.
Top 10 In-Demand Careers for 2025
1. Software Developer
Software developers are crucial in creating applications and systems that drive businesses forward. Their expertise in programming languages and software design makes them indispensable in today’s digital landscape.Salary Range: 25,000-140,000 baht/month
2. AI & Machine Learning Engineer
With artificial intelligence becoming integral to various industries, AI and machine learning engineers are in high demand. They specialize in developing algorithms and models that enable machines to learn from data.Salary Range: 60,000-80,000 baht/month
3. Data Analyst
Data analysts play a vital role in interpreting complex data sets to inform business decisions. Their ability to derive insights from data helps organizations optimize their strategies and improve performance.Salary Range: 40,000-80,000 baht/month
4. Data Scientist
Data scientists focus on advanced analytics and predictive modeling to provide actionable insights for businesses. They combine statistical knowledge with programming skills to enhance decision-making processes.Salary Range: 35,000-80,000 baht/month
5. Digital Marketing Specialist
Digital marketing specialists leverage online platforms to create effective marketing strategies. Their skills in content creation and data analysis help businesses engage with their target audiences effectively.Salary Range: 30,000-80,000 baht/month
6. Cybersecurity Professional
As cyber threats increase, cybersecurity professionals are essential for protecting organizational data and systems. They implement security measures and respond to incidents to safeguard against breaches.Salary Range: 60,000-100,000 baht/month
7. Cloud Engineer
Cloud engineers design and manage cloud-based infrastructure and services. With the growing adoption of cloud computing, their expertise is crucial for organizations transitioning to cloud environments.Salary Range: 50,000-90,000 baht/month
8. Nurse Practitioner
The healthcare sector is experiencing a surge in demand for nurse practitioners who provide primary care services. Their role is vital in addressing the needs of an aging population and increasing healthcare accessibility.Salary Range: 120,000 baht/month
9. Renewable Energy Technician
As the world shifts towards sustainable energy sources, renewable energy technicians are becoming increasingly important. They install and maintain systems such as solar panels and wind turbines.Salary Range: $46,000/year (approx. 40,000 baht/month)
10. Content Creator
Content creators produce engaging material across various platforms to connect with audiences. Their creativity in writing, video production, and social media management drives engagement and brand awareness.Salary Range: 25,000-50,000 baht/month
Preparing for Future Careers
The job market of 2025 promises exciting opportunities across various sectors driven by technology and sustainability initiatives. By focusing on developing relevant skills for these in-demand careers—such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity—individuals can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving landscape. Embracing continuous learning will be essential for thriving in this dynamic environment.
Business
Thailand Commits to Becoming an AI Learning Hub
Ministers Announce Plans for AI Governance Collaboration
Thailand is dedicated to advancing global trust in artificial intelligence (AI) governance and establishing itself as a learning hub for AI through collaboration with UNESCO, according to Prasert Jantararuangthong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES). This initiative aims to enhance the ethical application of AI technologies while fostering skilled professionals in the field.
Goals for AI Workforce Development
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) has set ambitious goals to increase the number of AI-skilled workers by adding 30,000 engineers over the next three years. This plan includes generating 100 AI innovations valued at 40 billion baht and promoting AI adoption across 600 agencies nationwide.
Significant Increase in AI Adoption Rates
According to the AI Readiness Measurement 2024 report by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency and the National Science and Technology Development Agency, AI adoption plans among Thai organizations have reached 73.3%, reflecting an increase of nearly 20 percentage points year-on-year. This surge indicates a growing recognition of the importance of AI in various sectors.
Hosting the UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics
On Wednesday, the DES Ministry, MHESI, the Education Ministry, and UNESCO announced their partnership to host the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2025, themed “Ethical Governance of AI in Motion.” This event is scheduled to take place from June 24 to 27, 2025, in Bangkok and will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on AI governance.
Commitment to Ethical AI Implementation
Prasert emphasized that Thailand’s commitment aligns with UNESCO’s AI Readiness Assessment framework, which is recognized globally. The country has recently introduced key frameworks such as the AI Governance Guideline for Executives and the Generative AI Governance Guideline for Organizations. These resources aim to ensure responsible and transparent implementation of AI at all organizational levels.
Multilateral Collaboration for Developing Countries
The upcoming forum is expected to foster multilateral collaboration and build AI governance capacity in developing countries. It highlights Thailand’s dedication to global trust in AI governance while positioning itself as a leader in ethical AI practices.
Integration of AI Technologies Across Industries
Suphachai Jaismut, vice-minister for MHESI, stated that Thailand is prepared to integrate AI technologies across various industries, driven by a commitment to advancing research and development (R&D). This integration is crucial as Southeast Asia’s digital economy continues to grow rapidly.
Addressing Challenges in the Digital Economy
While advancements in AI infrastructure are promising, challenges such as the digital divide and job displacement due to automation remain significant concerns. Xing Qu, deputy director-general for UNESCO, emphasized that building peace through education, science, and culture is vital in an era where AI increasingly influences societies and economies.
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