NIMIR Energy, LONGi to explore opportunities, synergies in solar energy projects

on 23/10/2023

NIMIR Energy, a leading renewable energy company, has taken a significant step towards resolving Pakistan’s ongoing energy crisis by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with LONGi, a renowned global manufacturer of solar products.
This strategic partnership aims to revolutionize Pakistan’s energy landscape and provide sustainable solutions to address the pressing energy needs of nation, says a press statement.
With Pakistan facing a severe energy crisis, characterized by frequent power outages and an overreliance on traditional fossil fuels, the collaboration between NIMIR Energy and LONGi is a promising development in the pursuit of clean and affordable energy alternatives. The MoU signifies a mutual commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, to meet Pakistan’s growing electricity demand.
Under the terms of the MoU, NIMIR Energy and LONGi will work together to explore opportunities and synergies in solar energy projects and capacity building initiatives. The collaboration will leverage NIMIR Energy’s expertise in project development and LONGi’s cutting-edge solar technology to drive the adoption of renewable energy pan-Pakistan, pushing the government’s intent to promote solar. NIMIR Energy is part of NIMIR Group, providing services in renewable energy with primary focus on solar EPC for industrial, commercial and residential users. NIMIR Group has been serving Pakistan and its business community since 1964 with a diversified range of products. With climate action in full swing, NIMIR would like to play its positive role in bringing in the right resources to ensure Pakistan’s transition to clean and sustainable energy. The company’s commitment to sustainable development aligns perfectly with LONGi’s vision to enable the world to transition to a low-carbon future through its industry-leading solar products and solutions. LONGi, renowned for its high-efficiency solar modules and advanced photovoltaic technology, has emerged as a global leader in the solar industry. By joining forces with NIMIR Energy, the company aims to expand its reach and accelerate the development of solar energy projects in key markets around the world.
“We are delighted to enter into this strategic partnership with LONGi, a company that shares our commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions,” said Waqas Ahmed Rana, COO of NIMIR Energy. “Through this collaboration, we will combine our strengths and resources to drive innovation and promote the widespread adoption of solar energy, contributing to a more sustainable future.” “LONGi is excited to join forces with NIMIR Energy, a respected player in the renewable energy sector,” stated Melvin Hu, Country Head, Sales of LONGi. “Together, we can unlock new opportunities and create lasting impact by accelerating the deployment of solar energy projects worldwide. This collaboration exemplifies our dedication to addressing the challenges of climate change through technology innovation and sustainable business practices. With 100 terawatthours of total energy need, Pakistan ranks among top countries with huge potential of solar energy. Rising electricity prices and unstability in the grid have added further to the woes of the average Pakistani consumer. Nimir envisions solving this problem by providing a cost effective and high quality solution to public at large. For that reason, partnering with the biggest panel manufacturer in the world LONGi to bring in the best quality solar panels at most competitive price is the best way forward. With LONGi, Nimir plans to cater to all kinds of consumers with focus on industrial users to provide services unparalleled in the market.

MUET students’ startup wins National Innovation Award

on 18/10/2023

The students of Mehran UET, Jamshoro, led by the remarkable Ms. Nayab Raza, founder of Bhaan—a green tech startup dedicated to producing sustainable and eco-friendly bio-fertilizers—emerged as champions in the esteemed Prime Minister National Innovation Award. In a fierce competition featuring 250 participants from all corners of Pakistan across 17 different domains, they claimed the prestigious title, along with a grand cash prize of 1 million rupees.
This remarkable journey was nurtured by the National Expansion Plan of NICs in Cohort 2, taking root within the Science and Technology Park at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, Sindh. It is within this supportive ecosystem that Ms. Nayab Raza’s vision flourished and grew, allowing her to sow the seeds of success.
Bhaan’s outstanding accomplishments propelled them into the elite ranks of the top 10 winners nationwide. Their exceptional achievements did not go unnoticed, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself extended his heartfelt appreciation to the visionary startup founder, Nayab Raza, during the prestigious award ceremony. This recognition serves as a testament to the innovative solutions and unwavering determination demonstrated by Bhaan.
The Vice Chancellor of Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, Prof. Dr. Tauha Hussain Ali, and Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aneel Kumar, joined in the celebration, extending their warm congratulations to the victors. They also expressed deep admiration for the efforts of Prof. Dr. Qasim Arain, the esteemed Focal Person of the University at NEP–NICs Mehran University, Jamshoro Center, and his dedicated team, whose support and guidance were instrumental in this momentous achievement.
It is worth noting that four startups from Mehran University of Engineering and Technology were shortlisted to present their groundbreaking ideas in the Final Round. The grand event took place at NUST Islamabad on the 17th and 18th of June 2023, a gathering that epitomized innovation and ingenuity. Finally, the crowning moment arrived as the prestigious Award Distribution ceremony unfolded at the esteemed Prime Minister’s Secretariat on the 19th of June 2023, filling the atmosphere with pride, honor, and the sweet taste of victory.

EV batteries: Korean company to invest $2.3 bn in copper foil production

on 18/10/2023

Lotte Chemical plans to boost production o hicle batteries, the South Korean company said in an investment expected to reach 3 trillion won ($2.3 billion) through 2028.
Listed subsidiary Lotte Energy Materials makes copper foil used to wrap the anodes of lithium-ion batteries. This foil needs to meet stringent standards for purity, flexibility and strength to increase battery output, according to Lotte Chemical.
The Lotte group is focusing on battery materials, including aluminum foil and organic solvents for electrolytes, with the aim of turning them into a core business to replace commodity-grade petrochemicals, which have thin profit margins.
The group has copper foil production facilities in South Korea and Malaysia, and is building a factory in Spain.
Plans call for quadrupling annual production capacity from the 2022 level to 240,000 tonnes in 2028. Lotte intends to expand existing plants and is considering a new factory in North America, where its customers — major South Korean battery manufacturers — are building new battery plants.
Lotte Energy Materials has 15 trillion won in outstanding orders for copper foil, the company said, a figure projected to reach 20 trillion won in two years.
Lotte Energy Materials President Kim Yeon-seop, who hails from Lotte Chemical, unveiled the company’s business strategy at a news conference in Seoul. The company, formerly known as Iljin Materials, changed its name to Lotte Energy Materials when it was acquired by Lotte Chemical for 2.7 trillion won last year.

28th Pakistan HVACR Expo 2023 set to boost local industry

on 26/06/2023

Preparations for the 28th Pakistan HVACR Expo 2023 being held in Karachi from June 8 are on the fast track and signals coming from organizers and exhibitors suggest the show is most likely to break the cycle of despair in the business community in the wake of the difficult economic situation in Pakistan.
Chairman of HVACR Society, Karachi Chapter Zeeshan Ahmed Siddiqi says there is a positive response from the people and that the exhibitors are excited as Karachi is hosting this moot after three years.
He believes the exhibition simultaneously is a challenge too in Pakistan’s current fragile economic situation. But still, the show has attracted exhibitors and all are coming to the exhibition where they will display their products and offer services.
HVACR Expo is embedded with a conference focusing on energy efficiency and skill development, the areas in the spotlight in Pakistan today. The conference theme is linked with energy, localization, and technology transfer—the demands that the organizers fully comprehend.
HVACR Expo organizers said they were pretty unsure of the outcomes when they started moving but now we do witness the synergy appearing on the horizon. Our people have always been hopeful. They say what is needed is the policies that should be corrected so that the local industry is encouraged.
Yet another HVACR player says we have been lacking in producing local producers; we have been dependent on imports. We have failed to recognize local producers who are now gradually being given awareness. This exhibition would play its part in such a direction.
This show, says yet another player will bolster industry-academia collaboration and this is one of the ways to increase productivity in Pakistan. Local producers will be encouraged if they see society moving in this direction. There are quite a number of companies which are producing various parts which were imported until a few years ago.
A local producer says he is very confident that he will have an opportunity to display Pakistan-made products in the exhibition. We are making products that match international standards and if they are recognized, Pakistan will be benefited the most.
Yet another local producer is also sure this exhibition will bolster the local industry in the country. The people will know about local products which can replace the imported ones.

BRG, PSPP Organize 2nd Pakistan Water Summit

on 26/06/2023

Business Relay Group and the Pakistan Society of Plumbing Professionals (PSPP) organized the 2nd Pakistan Water Summit in March at a local hotel in Karachi in celebration of the United Nations’ World Water Day.
The summit was organized with the theme “Accelerating Change” and aimed to promote sustainable water management practices in Pakistan.
The summit brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, industry experts, academics, and civil society representatives, to discuss water-related challenges and find solutions to accelerate change toward sustainable water management practices in Pakistan. The summit focused on key issues such as water scarcity, water pollution, and climate change, and highlighted the importance of adopting innovative technologies and best practices to ensure sustainable water management.
The event featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops that provided participants with the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue and knowledge sharing. The summit showcased successful case studies and highlighted the importance of cross-sectorial collaboration in addressing water-related challenges.
Speaking about the event, Engr. Sajjad Ghani, President, Pakistan Society of Plumbing Professionals, said, “We are thrilled to have organized the Pakistan Water Summit in celebration of the UN World Water Day. We recognize the importance of promoting sustainable water management practices and believe that the summit has played a crucial role in accelerating change toward this goal. We hope that this event will inspire and motivate all stakeholders to continue working towards sustainable water management practices in Pakistan.”
Mr. Abbas Sajid, General Secretary of the Pakistan Society of Plumbing Professionals, told, “The Pakistan Water Summit has provided a unique platform for stakeholders to share their experiences, best practices, and innovative ideas towards ensuring sustainable water management in Pakistan.
Mr. Faraz Khan, CEO, Business Relay Group, added, “We are committed to continuing this dialogue and collaboration and look forward to building on the success of this event.”
The Pakistan Water Summit was a resounding success, with participants from a wide range of sectors coming together to discuss solutions and strategies to accelerate change toward sustainable water management practices in Pakistan. The summit demonstrated the importance of collaboration, innovation, and partnership in addressing the critical water-related challenges facing the country.