Thailand pauses data-centre approvals while it writes new minimum standards
Thailand has temporarily stopped approving and building data centres while it rewrites the rules for the industry. The pause covers projects already under way and those waiting for a decision. Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas says projects already under way and those awaiting a decision are both on hold. Agencies have one month to set … The story Thailand pauses data-centre approvals…
Thailand has temporarily halted the approval and construction of data centres as the government drafts new industry standards. This pause applies to ongoing projects and those awaiting approval. Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas confirmed that both active and pending projects are affected. The national data-centre policy committee decided on this measure during a meeting on September 4.
The deputy prime minister explained that investors previously had to navigate approvals from various ministries and agencies independently. Thailand aims to establish a unified national strategy instead of handling approvals on a per-project basis. Agencies now have a month to create minimum standards covering economic, social, and environmental aspects.
These standards will apply to existing sites, new constructions, and future proposals. Existing operators will be given a period to comply with the new regulations. The committee also seeks a consolidated perspective of the industry, integrating water and electricity usage data, telecom regulator records, and clean energy initiatives.
Additionally, future projects will be subject to a bidding system where investors outline the benefits to the nation.
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