The Power Division has categorically denied recent rumors circulating about the imposition of a fixed tax on solar power in Pakistan. In an official statement, the Power Division clarified that there is no truth to these speculations, emphasizing that such measures have not been considered or proposed. According to the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) and Power Division officials, no formal proposal or summary has been forwarded to the government regarding the imposition of any additional taxes or fixed charges specifically targeting solar power consumers. This clarification comes amidst concerns…
Read MoreDay: April 27, 2024
Nepra Criticizes Power Companies for Inefficiencies
In Islamabad, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) recently censured power companies for inefficiencies and their reliance on expensive power plants, despite cheaper alternatives being available. During a public hearing led by Nepra Chairman Waseem Mukhtar, concerns were raised over the underutilization of cost-effective plants, leading to a rise in average fuel costs. Notably, hydropower supply exceeded estimates in the reference tariff, yet cheaper plants remained inactive, contributing to higher fuel costs. Similarly, coal and gas-based power generation saw cost escalations due to operational dynamics and increased gas prices.…
Read MorePakistan’s Energy Decisions Driven by National Interest, says Foreign Office In Islamabad,
the Foreign Office reaffirmed Pakistan’s prioritization of national interest in making decisions regarding its energy needs. Spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch emphasized that Pakistan’s energy requirements play a crucial role in driving its economy, guiding its stance on international relations, including potential sanctions and trade dynamics in the energy sector. Addressing queries about the Pakistan-Iran Gas Pipeline Project and trade agreements, Baloch highlighted ongoing discussions and cooperation in the energy domain between Pakistan and Iran. She emphasized the importance of balancing relations with different countries, including the United States and Iran,…
Read MorePower Division Expresses Concerns Over Solarisation’s Impact on National Grid
The Power Division in Islamabad has voiced apprehensions regarding the growing trend of solarisation, especially in the context of net-metering, stating that it is straining the national power system. The division has urged the government to consider implementing a new time-of-use (TOU) tariff for consumers to address these challenges. During a recent Nepra public hearing on additional fuel charges adjustments, officials highlighted a notable 7.5% decline in electricity demand compared to reference targets for March. This decline, attributed partly to solar energy integration, has led to a shift in demand…
Read MoreOCAC Issues Dire Warning: Diesel Glut Threatens Oil Sector’s Sustainability
The Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) has issued a stark warning about the oil sector’s sustainability crisis, citing massive stocks of high-speed diesel (HSD) that could hinder refineries’ ability to import crude oil. In a letter to the Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), OCAC highlighted the critical challenges posed by excessively high HSD stocks, primarily due to rampant smuggling of petroleum products from western borders. According to OCAC, the country currently holds 44 days’ worth of HSD stock, totaling 650,000 tonnes, far exceeding the planned sales of 14,700 tonnes…
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