Nepra Approves Wheeling Auction Framework, Launches Competitive Power Market

Nepra-KE-1

ISLAMABAD: In a significant move towards power sector liberalisation, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has approved the Wheeling Auction Process and declared the Competitive Market Operations Date (CMOD) effective from January 22, 2026. Nepra has directed the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) to immediately operationalise the auction mechanism and begin preparations for issuing the Request for Proposal (RFP), ensuring transparency, competition, and procedural fairness. The development follows amendments to Strategic Directive 87 of the National Electricity Plan and Rule 5 of the Eligibility Criteria Rules, 2023, aimed…

Read More

Reports of US Envoy Visit to Islamabad Spark Speculation Over Possible Iran Talks

New-Project111

ISLAMABAD: Reports suggesting that Steve Witkoff, the United States’ Special Envoy to the Middle East, has arrived in Islamabad have fueled speculation that Pakistan could host potential talks between Washington and Tehran. According to US-based outlet Dropsite, diplomatic sources indicate that US and Iranian officials may meet in Islamabad as early as this week to explore a resolution to the conflict that began on February 28. However, no official confirmation has been issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office or the Iranian Embassy. A senior Iranian diplomat, speaking anonymously, described the possibility…

Read More

Oil Prices Slide Nearly 4% Amid Hopes of Middle East Ceasefire

New-Oil1

Global oil prices dropped sharply on Wednesday, falling around 4% as optimism grew over a potential ceasefire in the Middle East that could ease ongoing supply disruptions. Brent crude declined by $4.89, or 4.7%, to $99.60 per barrel, after touching an intraday low of $97.57. Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell $3.54, or 3.8%, to $88.81 per barrel, having earlier dipped to $86.72. The decline follows a nearly 5% surge in both benchmarks a day earlier, highlighting continued market volatility. Market sentiment shifted after reports that the United…

Read More

OGDC Commences Oil Production from Pasakhi-13, Pakistan’s First Horizontal Well in Clastic Reservoir

New-OGDC1

The well is producing 460 barrels of oil per day, showcasing advanced horizontal drilling and boosting domestic energy outputISLAMABAD, 24 March 2026: Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) on Tuesday announced the successful commencement of oil production from its development well Pasakhi-13, marking a historic milestone as Pakistan’s first successful horizontal oil well in a clastic reservoir (Lower Goru – A Sand).Located in the Hyderabad district of Sindh province, Pasakhi-13 is currently producing 460 barrels of oil per day (BPD). The well was drilled to a measured depth of…

Read More

OGRA Trains Oil Industry on Digital Track & Trace System to Strengthen Transparency

OGRA

Islamabad, March 24, 2026 The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), has conducted a comprehensive industry-wide training session on its Digital Platform, marking a significant step towards the implementation of a track and trace system for petroleum products across Pakistan. Held at OGRA’s Head Office in Islamabad, the session drew participation from over 200 industry representatives, with a large number joining virtually. Senior officials from OGRA and PITB were also present. The training focused on equipping stakeholders with practical understanding of…

Read More