STUDY ON ETHANOL PRODUCTION PLANT PROBLEMS IN THAILAND

This research investigates the challenges faced by ethanol production plants in Thailand and offers preliminary guidelines for addressing them in the government sector and for ethanol plant operators. This study collected data on the identified problems through surveys conducted at 11 of Thailand’s 26 ethanol production plants. The study used questionnaires to interrogate seven aspects of ethanol production, namely raw materials, production processes, transportation, pricing, government support, engineering, and environmental considerations. Consequently, the data revealed notable correlations between the production period and the problems encountered. It was discovered that all types of ethanol production plants experienced the most significant difficulties with obtaining raw materials and pricing, both being major problems. The production of raw materials such as molasses and cassava, fluctuates seasonally, resulting in unstable yearly yields. Another moderate concern for ethanol production plants is the government policy to promote the use of ethanol fuel.