Wat’s the charge? Temple’s electricity bill leaves abbot in asterisk-ing confusion

The abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Buriram was left puzzled after receiving the temple’s electricity bill, which lacked both the FT charge and the total amount due, instead showing only asterisks. This led to confusion about how to pay the bill or if the temple might be getting free electricity this month. He urged officials to thoroughly check bills before issuing them.

Phra Ajarn Lesak Varrasapho, the abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Nong Yai Phim, Nang Rong District, Buriram, posted the electricity bill along with a message.

“The electricity bill is 10,000 baht, but Wat Pa Amphawan… pays 0 baht… confused… dazed…”

Reporters visited the temple to speak with Phra Ajarn Lesak, who showed them the electricity bill for May. The bill lacked both the FT charge and the total electricity cost, displaying only asterisks. He explained that the temple usually pays an average of 3,000 to 4,000 baht per month for electricity, depending on the number of religious activities, funerals, or training sessions held at the temple.

The temple relies on donations from laypeople to cover these costs, and the bills are given to those who help pay them.

However, this month’s bill did not specify the FT charge or the total amount due, only showing asterisks, which left the abbot confused. The temple has not yet handed the bill to the donors who help cover the electricity costs.

The abbot plans to take the bill to the electricity authority to inquire about the mistake and determine the correct amount owed. He urged officials to thoroughly check bills before issuing them to customers, reported Sanook.

In related news, the Energy Ministry announced earlier this month that it is gearing up to unveil the National Energy Plan 2024 in September. This comprehensive strategy promises to revolutionise Thailand’s energy landscape with the introduction of nuclear plants and a pledge to cap electricity costs at under 4 baht per unit.

The Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) revealed that this master plan will serve as a blueprint for both public and private sectors, aiming to secure the nation’s energy future, hit the net zero target by 2065, and align with international regulations and trade agreements.