ISLAMABAD: The government on Monday tacitly acknowledged in the National Assembly that it was responsible for ongoing internet disruptions and social media monitoring, citing security concerns as the driving factor. “Pakistan faces significant security threats, necessitating a controlled approach. We cannot leave social media unregulated like other countries,” stated Parliamentary Secretary for Cabinet Secretariat Sajid Mehdi. His comments came in response to opposition criticism over slow internet speeds and alleged restrictions on online platforms. The debate arose during a calling attention notice from JUI-F lawmaker Aliya Kamran regarding sluggish internet…
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OGDCL Revives Heavy Oil Well in Chakwal, Enhances Production at Rajian Oil Field
ISLAMABAD, December 16, 2024: Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan’s leading exploration and production company, has successfully revived a heavy oil well in the Northern Region field, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s energy sector. The initiative was undertaken at the Rajian Oil Field located in Gujar Khan Exploration License (E.L.), district Chakwal, and is part of OGDCL’s strategic moves to enhance production capabilities. Earlier, the field’s four heavy oil-producing wells were contributing 1,500 barrels per day (BPD). With the successful completion of the revival process, the…
Read MoreUK Unveils Ambitious Clean Power 2030 Plan: 45 GW Solar and 22 GW BESS Targets
LONDON, Dec 16: The UK government has set ambitious targets under its Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, aiming for a dramatic expansion of solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS) to support its net-zero goals. The plan, unveiled on December 13, 2024, outlines the addition of 30 GW of solar capacity by 2030, bringing the total to 45-47 GW, alongside a fivefold increase in BESS capacity to 22-27 GW. Solar Energy GrowthThe new solar targets align with recommendations by the National Electricity System Operator (NESO) and represent a doubling of…
Read MoreChina’s Thermal Power Generation Rises 1.9% in Jan-Nov Amid Renewables Expansion
BEIJING, Dec 16: Despite China’s aggressive push for renewable energy, thermal power generation—primarily coal-fired—rose by 1.9% year-on-year during the first 11 months of 2024. Official data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicates that thermal power output reached 5.74 trillion kilowatt-hours (kWh) from January to November. While natural gas-fired power plants contribute a smaller share, coal remains the dominant source of thermal energy. The slight increase in fossil fuel-based power highlights ongoing challenges in balancing China’s energy transition with growing electricity demand. This modest rise comes amid China’s rapid…
Read MoreIPPs Agree to Forensic Audit Amid Power Sector Reforms, Hopes SAPM
ISLAMABAD: Muhammad Ali, Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on Power, has announced significant progress in renegotiating agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to address longstanding inefficiencies in Pakistan’s power sector. Speaking on Geo News’ special talk show “Aakhri Mauqa: Pakistan Kay Liye Kar Dalo”, Ali disclosed that 15 out of 18 IPPs established under the 1994 and 2002 power policies have agreed to revised terms, transitioning to a “take-and-pay” system. This move is projected to save the government a staggering Rs800 billion over the remaining duration of these contracts.…
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