Bangkok (VNA) - The Thai government has formally approved energy authorities'decision to either waive or cut electricity charges for 22 million households affectedby the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Thai Energy Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong said this came afterthe cabinet meeting on April 21 that saw the participation of representativesfrom the Energy Regulatory Commission, the Electricity Generating Authority ofThailand, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority and the Provincial ElectricityAuthority.

The measure willbe valid for three months, from March to May, and cost the state 23.68 billion THBin lost revenue, he said.

"The measure reduces the electricity charges burden on households. It isthe cost of living of the people who are working from home to support thegovernment's control of COVID-19," Sontirat said.

Free electricity is extended to households witha power meter of no more than 5 amps. Up to 10 million households are expectedto benefit.

For households with a power meter over 5 amps, if their consumption does notexceed 800 units (kilowat hours), they will pay as much as they did in theirFebruary bill. The amount over 800 units will be subject to a 50 percent discount.

Large houses thatconsume more than 3,000 units will get a 30 percent discount./.