Community-Based Renewable Energy Management Model for the Sustainability of Natural Resources in a Buddhist-Oriented Approach: A Case Study of Rai Khing Municipality, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province

Abstract

This article has three main objectives: (1) to examine the context and potential of the community in managing renewable energy in Rai Khing Municipality, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province; (2) to promote awareness of renewable energy management for the sustainability of natural resources through a Buddhist-oriented approach; and (3) to develop a community-based renewable energy management model appropriate to the local context. The study employed a participatory action research (PAR) design, using the Four Sangahavatthu (principles of altruistic acts) as the conceptual framework. The target group consisted of 15 participants, including community leaders, Buddhist monks, local administrative representatives, and local residents, selected through purposive sampling. The research tools comprised semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and field notes. Data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive narrative writing.

The findings revealed that: (1) the community possesses the potential to utilize natural resources such as sunlight, organic waste, and wastewater for renewable energy production, supported by relevant agencies and networks; (2) community awareness was fostered through activities integrating the Four Sangahavatthu principles, namely sharing knowledge (dāna), constructive communication (piya-vācā), collective practice (attha-cariyā), and promoting equality (samānattatā), which encouraged mindful energy use; and (3) the community developed a renewable energy management model suitable to its context, called the “Buddhist-Oriented Energy Model,” comprising three key components: community resource base, participatory mechanisms, and a system of continuous innovation development.

The knowledge generated from this research can be applied to community energy planning, the promotion of spiritual–environmental learning, and the expansion of sustainable renewable energy management models within Thai communities.