Deputy Energy Permanent Secretary Norkhun Sitthipong said the three laws to be amended are those that control the board itself, the fuels industry and fuels trade. The ministry is also combining ministerial regulations on natural gas exploration and production.

"We're seeking the board's approval in principle," Norkhun said.

Norkhun did not reveal the details but a source at the ministry said that the board of directors will allocate two seats to the Ministries of Science and Natural Resources, following higher environmental concerns.

The definition of fuels in the fuels control law would be extended to cover liquefied petroleum gas and other products that are included in fuel oil, including ethanol.

The amendment to the fuels trade law is expected to ensure fairness to new and old traders. The Energy Ministry would also be more active in inspecting the quality of oil at new gas stations so that independent gas stations and those located along borders would come under more strict control.

The law would also be amended to empower the energy minister to revoke trading licences to oil traders who do not start business within two years from the date of being issued a licence or violate the conditions. The minister could also bar them from doing the business for longer than three years.

Regarding the ministerial regulations, the ministry will combine eight regulations into four, to have more concise on rules and procedures in applying for petroleum concessions as well as petroleum exploration and production.