Majority backs energy reform, calls for faster government action: poll

A majority of respondents to a survey by Suan Dusit Poll support the restructuring of energy prices to reduce living costs quickly, as part of the government’s response to the energy crisis.

The poll, conducted nationwide on the government’s handling of the energy crisis, surveyed 1,266 people between April 7 and 10.

Among the three measures recently announced by the prime minister, most (72%) supported energy price restructuring, covering both fuel and electricity.

59% of those polled back the announced relief measures to ease hardship, such as co-payment subsidy schemes and low-interest loans for farmers, entrepreneurs and SMEs.

Another 58% supported a cut in government spending and the redirecting of funds to helping people affected by the crisis.

Regarding expectations, 34% believe that these measures are likely to succeed in resolving the energy crisis, while 32% are uncertain.

Only 15% are confident of success though, while 14% think the measures are unlikely to help and 5% believe they will fail completely.

As for additional measures, 76% want reductions in the excise tax on fuels. This is followed by 75% supporting price controls on consumer goods, 55% calling for increased electricity subsidies for low-income earners, 54% backing the long-term promotion of renewable energy and 46.05% urging stricter enforcement against those exploiting the energy crisis.

Pornphan Buathong, head of the poll, said the findings reflect public expectations that the government of Anutin Charnvirakul will take concrete action now.

In particular, people want immediate relief from the inexorably rising cost of living and tangible short-term measures, rather than broad policy statements that are likely to fuel public dissatisfaction.

The poll results also suggest that the government must communicate clearly, act decisively and address the real challenges being faced by people every day.