Renewable Energy Development Based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy through Buddhist Peaceful Means among Nong Rong Agriculturist in Saraburi Province

Abstract

The research study has the following objectives:  1) to study and analyze the context, problems, and importance of developing renewable energy and the concept of management theory based on a sufficiency economy by Buddhist peaceful means, 2) to study and analyze the Buddhist principles that facilitate the development of renewable energy; 3) to create and propose a strategy for the development of renewable energy based on a sufficiency economy through Buddhist peaceful means. The study employed a qualitative research method by using action research based on Ariyasacca (the Four Noble Truths). The research tools were an in-depth interview form with key informants separated into six groups totaling 24 persons.

The findings of the study can be summarized as follows: 1) The study identified several key problems in the development and implementation of renewable energy, including the high cost of equipment, limited access to funding, insufficient technical knowledge among agriculturists regarding the operation and maintenance of renewable energy systems, and a lack of adequate government support. Despite these obstacles, the use of renewable energy is considered significant for its potential to reduce operational costs, lower pollution levels, and provide clean, sustainable energy sources; 2) The research highlights Diṭṭhadhammikattha principles—four key aspects of moral conduct—as foundational to promoting renewable energy within the framework of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. These principles include Uṭṭhāna-sampadā (Diligence), which involves continuous effort in one’s profession, skill development, the pursuit of additional income, and lifelong learning, Ārakkha-sampadā (Preservation), which is the emphasis on financial prudence, protection of earned assets, and careful financial planning, Kalyāṇa-mittatā (Association with Good Friends), which is the advocate for connections with virtuous and knowledgeable individuals, promoting ethical livelihoods, and encouraging mindful engagement with digital content and online communities, and Sammā-vivitta (Moderation), which is supporting a lifestyle guided by balance and self-restraint in accordance with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy; and 3) The proposed strategy for advancing renewable energy within a Buddhist and Sufficiency Economy context includes the following components: (1) Implementation process, which involves educational training to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, application of the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) management model, development of user manuals for equipment operation and maintenance, and fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange and mutual support, (2) Key success factors that contribute to effective renewable energy adoption include the availability of high-quality and affordable equipment, economic benefits such as cost reduction and increased income, supportive government policies, and strong community motivation for collective action, and (3) Policy recommendations in which the government agencies should promote renewable energy by providing comprehensive information on the benefits and limitations of solar energy, offering financial assistance and low-interest loans, encouraging efficient energy use, and nurturing a shared sense of environmental stewardship and conservation within communities.