Author: Admin

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s solar energy contribution to the national power mix remains significantly low at just 1.15 percent, far behind countries such as Brazil (14.9%), China (12.4%), and India (9.8%), according to a latest report by the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP). Titled “Unlocking Green Potential: A Market Competition Study of Solar Energy in Pakistan 2026,” the report highlights structural challenges hindering the sector’s growth, including limited local manufacturing, inconsistent policies, and insufficient investment. The CCP study identifies key market distortions and entry barriers, particularly Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imported solar…

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RAWALPINDI: The government’s announced relief for motorcycle riders has largely failed to materialize on the ground, with citizens reporting little to no benefit despite a recent reduction in petrol prices. While petrol prices were cut following public backlash, the unchanged cost of diesel has prevented any meaningful reduction in transport fares. Public and goods transport—largely dependent on diesel—continues to operate at elevated costs, undermining the overall impact of the relief measures. Freight charges have surged by 60–65%, significantly increasing the cost of transporting essential commodities. In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, flour…

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BERLIN: Five European Union member states have proposed imposing a windfall tax on energy companies to address soaring fuel prices triggered by the ongoing Iran conflict, according to a joint letter sent to the European Commission. Finance ministers from Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Austria urged the European Commission to introduce an EU-wide tax on excess profits earned by energy firms. The proposal aims to generate funds for temporary consumer relief and help curb inflation without adding pressure on public finances. The ministers emphasized that such a measure would demonstrate…

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ISLAMABAD: The Power Division is moving forward with the appointment of a new Board of Directors (BoD) for Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO) after prolonged delays, while the process for Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) continues to face uncertainty. According to officials, both Sindh-based distribution companies have been operating without reconstituted boards since the expiry of their three-year tenures on September 2, 2025. The delay, largely attributed to political factors, has drawn criticism, particularly as both utilities remain among the poorest performers in terms of losses and recovery. Operating under…

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ISLAMABAD: Facing strong public backlash over the sharp rise in fuel prices, the government has rolled out a targeted subsidy for public transport, aiming to cushion the impact on commuters and control inflation. Speaking at a joint press conference, IT and Telecom Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that trucks, buses, and other public service vehicles have started receiving the subsidy with immediate effect. She said the initiative, originally planned for later implementation, was expedited on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif due to the urgency of the situation. The…

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