The upcoming month promises relief for consumers as petrol and High-Speed Diesel (HSD) prices in Pakistan are anticipated to decrease by significant margins. International oil price reductions and stable premium rates have paved the way for these adjustments, set to take effect on May 1. The federal government is poised to lower petrol prices by Rs4.88 per liter and HSD prices by Rs7.37 per liter. Kerosene oil rates are expected to drop by Rs8.03 per liter, while light diesel oil (LDO) prices are likely to decrease by Rs5.37 per liter.…
Read MoreMonth: April 2024
PM Shehbaz Sharif Approves Reforms for Affordable Industrial Power
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given the green light to reform the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC) and has established a “special cell” for effective implementation. In a meeting focusing on electricity sector reforms, the PM directed the creation of a comprehensive plan to provide power-efficient fans at affordable rates to those in need. Discussions also delved into issues surrounding power distribution companies, their losses, potential privatization, and outsourcing. PM Shehbaz emphasized the need for tariff rationalization, particularly for industries and domestic consumers. He urged the preparation of a…
Read MoreGovernment’s Clean Energy Policy Under Scrutiny
Pakistan’s government faces scrutiny over its conflicting energy policies, as it touts promoting solar energy while planning to expand IPP contracts. Reports indicate the Ministry of Power is busy discouraging solar panel installations: The Central Power Purchasing Agency has sent a summary to the Power Ministry proposing to charge Rs. 2000 per kilowatt from solar panel grids, up from Rs. 12 per kilowatt.The government plans to charge domestic or commercial solar panel owners Rs. 2000 per kilowatt, intending to collect Rs. 24,000 from 12-kilowatt solar panel users.The Power Division has…
Read MorePakistan Appeals for US Waiver on IP Gas Pipeline Amid Energy Needs
Pakistan is making a case for a US waiver regarding the Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline to address its pressing energy requirements and avoid potential penalties amounting to $18 billion if Iran opts for arbitration through a France-based mechanism. In a letter addressed to President Joseph R. Biden, an energy and water consultant and adviser to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Arshad H. Abbasi, underscored Pakistan’s strategic alignment with the US historically, particularly during significant global events such as the USSR invasion of Afghanistan. However, Abbasi pointed out…
Read MorePakistan and Iran to Strengthen Economic and Energy Ties, Emphasize Regional Stability
During President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan, both countries emphasized enhancing economic cooperation and addressing regional challenges. The visit resulted in a joint statement outlining key areas of collaboration and mutual understanding. One significant outcome is the commitment to expedite the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and Iran, highlighting the importance of economic integration and trade facilitation. Additionally, cooperation in the energy sector, including trade in electricity, power transmission lines, and the IP gas pipeline project, was reaffirmed, underscoring the shared interest in energy security and sustainability. Furthermore, both…
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