Thailand Cuts Rural Street Lighting Amid Rising Energy Costs

Thailand Cuts Rural Street Lighting Amid Rising Energy Costs

BANGKOK, April 26, 2026 — Thailand’s Department of Rural Roads said it will begin dimming or switching off street lights on selected low-risk rural routes nationwide from May 1 as part of a cost-cutting and energy-saving campaign.

The measure will focus on roads with low traffic volumes, particularly outside populated areas or during off-peak hours, the department said in a statement on Saturday.

Officials said lighting would remain fully operational in high-risk locations including intersections, sharp bends, bottlenecks, densely populated zones and heavily used roads.

The department said the policy is intended to reduce government energy costs and improve resource efficiency while maintaining road safety.

Additional safety measures, including clearer warning signs and improved traffic signals, will be introduced in areas with reduced lighting, officials said.

Motorists were urged to drive cautiously, use headlights properly and comply with traffic regulations.

Authorities said the effectiveness of the plan would be monitored after implementation and adjustments could be made depending on traffic conditions and safety outcomes.

Thailand has introduced a range of energy-saving measures in recent years as governments across the region seek to manage higher power costs and improve efficiency.