Combustion Engines Are Now Officially A Minority In The EU

A new analysis from TechGaged Research has revealed that combustion engines have officially become a minority in the European Union, marking a decisive and historic shift in the region’s automotive landscape. According to TechGaged’s research, petrol and diesel models accounted for just 36.6% of all new vehicles registered across the EU this year, signaling the rapid rise of electrified mobility. According to the findings, electrified vehicles—hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fully battery-electric cars—now represent more than 60% of all new EU registrations year-to-date. Hybrids dominated with 34.6%, battery-electric vehicles reached 16.4%, and plug-in hybrids climbed to 9.1%, reflecting the fastest structural transformation the region’s automotive sector has ever experienced. “Europe has now crossed the point of no return. Combustion engines aren’t just declining—they’ve been dethroned. Electrified powertrains are the new mainstream, and the momentum behind them is accelerating faster than most people realize,” said Rokas B., TechGaged’s senior industry analyst. “This isn’t a future scenario. It’s happening right now, and it’s reshaping the entire automotive value chain—from manufacturing to infrastructure to consumer expectations.” TechGaged’s research highlights that hybrid models surpassed three million units sold in 2025, making them the most common powertrain in the EU. Petrol models, once the backbone of Europe’s car market, fell sharply, representing just 31.28% of all units registered. Diesel continued its steep decline, dropping to 9.2%. The shift comes amid a year of globally divergent automotive trends. While EV demand softened in several markets—including the United States and Japan—Europe remained the world’s most consistent region for electrification. Germany posted a remarkable 39.4% increase in battery-electric sales despite earlier subsidy cuts, further underscoring how Europe’s transition is now primarily market-driven. At the same time, expanding low-emission zones and rising ownership costs for petrol and diesel cars pushed consumers toward electrified options at record pace. Automakers responded by accelerating their strategic pivot toward electrification, reallocating resources toward EV platforms, software-defined vehicle systems, and next-generation batteries. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers intensified their European push, offering competitively priced electric models that challenged legacy manufacturers on cost and speed of innovation. Expectations for 2026 and beyond Looking ahead, TechGaged analysts expect the shift to continue in 2026. Battery-electric market share is forecast to approach 18–20%, driven by the launch of new affordable models such as the Renault 5 E-Tech and the Volkswagen ID.2. Hybrid sales are expected to remain strong, though they may begin to plateau as charging networks mature. Diesel is projected to fall below 7%, while petrol is likely to face further pressure across all segments. “Europe has entered the post-combustion era. The market has chosen its trajectory, and electrified vehicles are now the default. From here, the question isn’t if combustion engines will fade out—it’s how fast the transition will complete,” added Rokas B. 

Nigeria: Stop Behaving As If You Are Doing Customers A Favour — NERC Commissioner Tells DisCos

Nigeria’s Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a strong rebuke to power distribution companies (DisCos), criticising them for providing poor services to Nigerians. Mr. Nathan Shatti, Commissioner for Corporate Services, expressed disbelief over the conduct of some DisCos, accusing them of taking customers for granted despite being paid for their services. Speaking during the 4th NESI Stakeholders Meeting in Abuja, Commissioner Shatti highlighted the poor performance of some utilities regarding Meter Asset Provider (MAP) refunds and installations, singling out Abuja and Kano DisCos for achieving only 2% compliance on refunds. Addressing the backlog of paid-for but uninstalled meters, he rejected the technical excuses provided by the companies and warned them against collecting customer funds when they cannot deliver the service. “If your network is not ready for metering, do not collect people’s money,” he cautioned. He further noted that for every transformer or meter left uninstalled, DisCos incur financial losses, stressing that it is in their own interest to install meters and fix transformer-related issues promptly. Shatti also revealed that more than 350,000 meters have yet to be migrated to the new STS standard and demanded an immediate cleanup of obsolete data. With the transition to State Electricity Regulatory Commissions underway, NERC Vice Chairman, Dr. Musiliu Oseni, issued an additional warning to DisCos regarding their cooperation with the new state regulators, emphasising that “No licensee is bigger than their regulator.” Dr. Oseni further disclosed that between 600,000 and 700,000 meters are currently available in the country. He urged utilities to improve publicity and accelerate their rollout, noting that the government has already made the necessary investments. He also proposed a direct enforcement mechanism using the wholesale market structure: “You still have your Operational Expenditure (OPEX) at the national wholesale market level. If you refuse to refund customers, that money can be withheld from your OPEX until you have done so.” He insisted that strict timelines be issued immediately to ensure full compliance. Dafe Akpeneye, NERC Commissioner for Legal, Licensing and Compliance, dismissed the excuse from DisCos that they cannot locate thousands of meters because customers allegedly moved them without authorisation. Drawing a parallel with the banking sector, he argued that just as a “Post No Debit” order forces a bank customer to visit a branch, DisCos must use their vending platforms to enforce compliance. “If you don’t know where the meter is, the customer shouldn’t be able to vend,” he said. His directive was explicit: “Issue a public notice that you cannot identify these meters. Block them from vending and take them off your system until the people concerned come forward.”    

Kenya: KenGen, NuPEA To Develop Kenya’s First Nuclear Power Plant

The Government of Kenya has appointed the country’s power generation company, KenGen, as the owner-operator of Kenya’s first nuclear power plant. KenGen will partner with the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) to advance this milestone project. Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi revealed the development, noting that the country aims to generate 10,000 MW (10 GW) of electricity from nuclear power in the long term. The planned nuclear plant—expected to be located along the coast—will provide stable baseload supply to support industrial growth, urbanization, and the country’s clean energy transition. NuPEA has already completed several preparatory phases, including feasibility studies, grid impact assessments, and public engagement processes. Kenya is currently in the Phase 2 stage of nuclear infrastructure development under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines, focusing on site selection, financing models, regulatory frameworks, human capacity development, and safety standards. Once completed, the project will be the first of its kind in East Africa and one of the largest energy infrastructure investments in Kenya’s history. This latest move underscores Africa’s growing interest in diversifying energy generation sources to include nuclear power. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between KenGen and NuPEA. Its main objective is to establish a collaborative framework for jointly planning, coordinating, and implementing robust public participation and stakeholder engagement activities to build awareness, understanding, and acceptance of the Kenya Nuclear Power Programme (KNPP). The collaboration under the MoU will include, but not be limited to, the following joint initiatives: Stakeholder mapping and analysis, Educational and awareness campaigns, Structured dialogue platforms, Digital and media engagement, Capacity building for engagement, and Feedback and grievance management systems. Currently, South Africa is the only country in Africa operating a nuclear power plant, while Egypt’s El Dabaa NPP is nearing completion. Meanwhile, Ghana, Zambia, Uganda, Guinea, and Burkina Faso are also at various stages of developing their first nuclear power plants.  

Ghana: Energy Media Group Honours Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur With Lifetime Achievement Award

The Board Chairman of the Volta River Authority and former Chief Executive Officer of the Bui Power Authority, Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur, was on Friday recognised and honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 9th Ghana Energy Awards, held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Ing. Amissah-Arthur, who is also the Managing Partner at Arthur Energy Africa, received overwhelming applause from energy-sector players as he walked to the stage to accept the award. He was recognised for more than four decades of service during which he played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s energy sector. He received a plaque and a citation highlighting his remarkable journey and impact in the industry. Early in his career, which began in 1979 at the VRA, he successfully resolved a complex IT challenge that had stalled the work of the Authority’s consultants—an early indication of the ingenuity that would later define his leadership. He was subsequently appointed to lead the Authority’s major digital transformation as Head of the MIS Department, modernising operations and significantly improving institutional efficiency. One of his most significant national contributions came through the Northern Electrification and System Reinforcement Project, where his technical leadership helped secure financing. He later coordinated all aspects of project implementation for extending the national grid from Kumasi to the northernmost parts of Ghana within four years. This achievement laid the foundation for the National Electrification Programme and expanded electricity access across the country. At just 42, he was appointed Deputy Chief Executive of the VRA, where he oversaw the country’s generation and transmission systems at a critical period in Ghana’s energy development. Later, as CEO of the Bui Power Authority, he led the successful delivery of the 400 MW Bui Hydroelectric Dam—completed on schedule, within budget, and supervised entirely by a Ghanaian technical team. The dam remains one of Ghana’s landmark engineering accomplishments. Ing. Amissah-Arthur also authored the Ghana Grid Code, the regulatory framework that continues to guide the safe and reliable operation of the national transmission system and ensure open access for all stakeholders. Beyond Ghana, he has contributed to more than 40 major energy projects across West Africa. He has held key leadership roles, including Chair of WAGPA, Chair of TiCO, and CEO and Board Member of the Bui Power Authority. The Lifetime Achievement Award reflects a career defined by innovation, integrity, and a deep commitment to building national capacity. It honours a leader whose work has expanded electrification, delivered a major national generation asset, strengthened energy institutions, and improved millions of lives across Ghana and the subregion. In his remarks, Ing. Amissah-Arthur said the recognition belongs not only to him but also to the many Ghanaian professionals he has worked with over the years. “I am humbled by this recognition. Every achievement has been a collective effort, and I remain proud of what Ghanaian engineers continue to accomplish,” he said.    

Third Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker Hit By Explosions In Senegal

A vessel carrying Russian gasoil (diesel ) was hit by multiple explosions off the coast of Senegal, marking the third case in recent days. The Mersin had made several calls at Russian ports this year before it met its fate on Monday. The vessel was later stabilized and placed under tow, with reports that crew members were safe. Gasoil is a fuel used for non-road applications like agricultural machinery, construction equipment, generators, and some heating systems. Ukrainian naval drones have been attacking sanctioned tankers in the Black Sea in recent weeks as Kyiv piles on the pressure on Russia’s vast oil industry. Last week, two oil tankers sailing to Novorossiysk, a major Russian Black Sea oil terminal, were hit, with Ukraine’s SBU security service later telling CNN that upgraded Sea Baby naval drones were used to attack the vessels in a joint SBU and naval operation. Identified as the Kairos and Virat, the two oil tankers sustained extensive damage and were effectively taken out of service. Kyiv has repeatedly urged the West to take action against Russia’s shadow fleet, which is helping move Russian oil around global markets and fund its war in Ukraine. Last month, the Trump administration announced fresh sanctions targeting Russia’s oil and gas giants, Rosneft and Lukoil. On Sunday, Ukraine delegates held peace talks in Washington, with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff now set to travel to Moscow for talks on Tuesday. However, whether or not Moscow will acquiesce to the newly proposed peace plan remains to be seen. The Trump administration has drafted a new 19-point peace plan that’s far more favorable to Ukraine compared to the original 28-point plan that heavily favored Russia. Some of the critical amendments in the new plan include no handover of the Donbas region to Russia for free, no automatic veto on Ukraine joining NATO in the future, and provision of Article 5-style protection for Ukraine, meaning the U.S. would be bound to intervene if Russia invades in the future. A proposal for full amnesty for war crimes that was part of the first plan has also been removed.  

Zambia Commissions 347MW Renewable Energy Projects After 2024 Drought Pushed Nation Into Power Crisis

Zambia has made significant progress in its efforts to address the country’s rolling power crisis by completing and commissioning about 347MW of solar PV projects since 2024, when severe drought conditions reduced inflows into the nation’s six main hydroelectric power generation dams. The Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, disclosed this on Sunday, November 30, 2025, while updating the nation on measures being taken to address the ongoing load-shedding being implemented by Zesco Limited. He listed several initiatives, including green city projects, rooftop solar installations, as well as utility-scale renewable and thermal (coal) power developments. “So far, 347MW of new generation has been completed. Notable among these are the 100MW Chisamba Solar PV Project, the 25MW Mailo Solar PV Plant in Serenje, and various projects under the net-metering initiative with a total capacity of 14.7MW,” Minister Chikote said. The Minister further revealed that public- and private-sector projects with a combined capacity of 2,510MW are under construction and are expected to be commissioned between 2025 and 2026. These include the ZESCO Mansa Solar PV Project (50MW), Maamba Phase II (300MW), and CEC Itimpi II (136MW). He acknowledged the concerns of Zambians about the effects of the ongoing load shedding and assured the nation that sustainable solutions are underway. “The Ministry of Energy is confident that the ongoing projects, once completed, will stabilise electricity supply, reduce load shedding, and strengthen energy security across Zambia,” he stated. He also welcomed the growing interest from investors seeking to support Zambia in bridging its energy gap. 

Ghana Launches Net-Metering Web Portal To Boost Rooftop Solar Adoption

Ghana has officially launched the National Net-Metering Web Application Portal under the Scaling Up Renewable Energy Program (SREP) to receive applications from residential consumers, small-scale businesses, and institutions seeking to adopt rooftop solar PV systems. The user-friendly platform, activated alongside a subsidy scheme, supports Ghana’s goal of achieving 10% renewable energy penetration in electricity generation by 2030, excluding hydropower. SREP is projected to contribute 13.5% of non-hydro renewable energy to the national mix, generate 111 GWh annually, mitigate 0.7185 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions, and create 2,865 construction-phase jobs—30% of which are targeted at women and youth. Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah, who represented the substantive minister at the launch, hailed the portal as a major milestone, noting its role in tracking installations nationwide.
Hon. Richard Gyan‑Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, in a group photograph with dignitaries after the launching of the Net‑Metering web portal.
“This user-friendly web portal will enable homes, businesses, industry owners, and public facilities to apply for smart net metering under the SREP for both existing and new captive renewable energy installations,” he stated, emphasizing stakeholder integration. Hon. Gyan-Mensah, Member of Parliament for Gomoa West Constituency, urged utilities such as ECG and NEDCo to link the platform to their websites and activate the subsidies. He also cautioned against installing oversized systems to ensure smooth processing. Acting Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, Mrs. Eunice A. Biritwum, traced the evolution of net metering from a 2009 pilot to the present digital launch. “Today, we stand at another defining moment—the launch of the National Net Metering Web Application Portal—which has been developed as part of the Net Metering Solar PV (NMPV) component of SREP,” she affirmed, crediting frameworks gazetted by the PURC in 2016. She noted that the Commission will enhance the framework for nationwide rollout, building on the initial 37 meters and recent smart system upgrades. African Development Bank (AfDB) Country Manager, Madam Eyerusalem Fasika, underscored the impact of a $27 million grant supporting SREP’s mini-grids and net metering for 59 communities. “Nearly 2,900 jobs will be created during the construction phase—or are already being created—with 30% reserved for women and young people,” she highlighted, adding that 12,000 systems, including those for SMEs, are targeted. Looking ahead, the Energy Commission boss said priority areas include the second phase of mini-grid deployment and the integration of clean cooking initiatives. Switzerland’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Simone Giger, praised the May 2022 agreement between Ghana and Switzerland, noting that it fast-tracked the platform’s implementation. “The platform will support document uploads, application tracking, approvals, monitoring of installed systems, reporting, and data management,” she emphasized, positioning it as a national database for solar adoption and job creation in PV installation. The Managing Director of the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), Ing. John Okine Yamoah, pledged his company’s commitment to the success of the SREP project. A representative of ECG also pledged the company’s support. Partners including the AfDB, Climate Investment Funds, and SECO were commended for fostering transparency and scale.   clink on this link to access srep portal https://srepgh.com  

UK: Equinor, Shell Combine UK Assets To Form New Company

Two of Europe’s largest oil and gas firms, Equinor and Shell, have completed a deal to combine their UK offshore oil and gas operations to form a new company known as Adura. The new company, launched on Monday, will be the UK North Sea’s largest independent producer. Adura CEO Neil McCulloch, who brings more than 30 years of experience in the energy sector, said: “It’s a rare privilege to be part of a company’s first chapter. A commitment to safety, a belief in the future of the North Sea, and the combined expertise from Equinor and Shell form the foundation of our exciting new company. I can’t wait to begin working with this exceptional team.” Adura, jointly owned by Shell (50%) and Equinor (50%), brings together decades of North Sea expertise into a joint venture positioned to deliver a more cost‑competitive portfolio and maximize long‑term value for UK assets. Shell’s Executive Vice President for Conventional Oil & Gas, Rich Howe, said: “Forming the largest independent producer together with Equinor is a historic moment for our business and the UK energy industry. With an exceptional asset base and industry‑leading expertise, Adura is well‑positioned to lead in this mature basin.” Equinor’s Executive Vice President for Exploration and Production International, Philippe Mathieu, added: “Adura represents a new chapter in the UK North Sea, bringing together two strong portfolios and decades of experience. With the focus, scale and operational flexibility needed to succeed, the company is positioned for long‑term impact. As owners, we are confident that Adura will generate long‑term value and reinforce the UK North Sea’s role in meeting the country’s energy needs.” Adura assumes Equinor and Shell’s interests in 12 producing oil and gas assets and projects in execution, including Mariner, Rosebank, Buzzard, Shearwater, Penguins, Gannet, Nelson, Pierce, Jackdaw, Victory, Clair and Schiehallion. It also holds a number of exploration licences. The company is headquartered in Aberdeen. Staff from both Shell and Equinor have transferred into Adura, ensuring that industry‑leading expertise is retained.

Ghana: BOST Energies Company Limited Wins Petroleum Company Of The Year Award

Ghana’s strategic fuel stock-keeping company, BOST Energies Company Limited (BOSTenergies), was on Friday crowned the Petroleum Company of the Year at the 9th Ghana Energy Awards, held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra. The award solidifies the company’s position as a leader in the energy sector, embracing dynamism, innovation, continuity, and adaptation to changing global trends. This esteemed recognition highlights BOSTenergies’ outstanding contributions to the energy industry, showcasing its commitment to excellence and innovation in the petroleum sector. The company emerged winner after beating Petrosol, Platinum Energy, Ghana National Gas Company Limited, Eni Ghana Exploration & Production, GOIL PLC, and JK Horgle Transport and Company Limited. In a statement issued, the company said the Board, Management, and staff of BOSTenergies were thrilled with the win, dedicating the award to their esteemed customers, partners, and stakeholders who have supported them on this journey. The Ghana Energy Awards celebrates the country’s top performers in the energy sector, providing a platform for industry leaders to network and share insights. “BOSTenergies’ win is a testament to its hard work and dedication to delivering quality energy solutions that secure and power Ghana’s energy future and sustainability. “The company looks forward to continuing its excellent service delivery, driving growth and development in Ghana’s energy industry,” the statement assured.

Nigeria: TotalEnergies To Sell 40% Stake In Two Exploration Licenses To Chevron

TotalEnergies, the French oil and gas supermajor, has announced plans to sell a 40% stake in two offshore exploration licenses in Nigeria to Chevron. The move is aimed at strengthening collaboration between the French and U.S. energy giants, the company said on Monday, as reported by Reuters. If the sale is completed, TotalEnergies will remain the operator of the asset with a 40% participating interest, alongside Chevron, also with 40%, and South Atlantic Petroleum with 20%. Nigeria accounts for more than a third of TotalEnergies’ oil and gas production in Africa and 8.5% of its global hydrocarbons output, although its production in the country has declined by a quarter over the past two decades. The company is now streamlining its African portfolio, focusing on assets it operates while seeking new sources of supply. “This new joint venture aims at derisking and developing new opportunities in Nigeria … to unlock new resources in the West Delta basin,” Nicola Mavilla, TotalEnergies’ Senior Vice President of Exploration, said in a statement. In June, Chevron sold TotalEnergies a 25% interest in a portfolio of 40 U.S. federal offshore leases for an undisclosed amount, as part of an exploration partnership between the two majors.

Ghana: Institutions Of Engineering & Technology Ghana Honours Managing Director Of Tema Oil Refinery Ltd.

The Institutions of Engineering & Technology (IET), Ghana, has honoured the Managing Director of Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Ltd., Edmond Kombat Esq., for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to revamping the state-owned refinery and restoring its core mandate of processing crude oil. Mr. Kombat received a special plaque at the Institute’s 29th Annual General Meeting and Induction Ceremony held on 27th November, 2025. In October, the Institute paid an official visit to the refinery to assess progress as TOR undertook a comprehensive turnaround maintenance programme to revive operations. During the visit, the delegation was impressed to discover that all ongoing works were being executed by local engineers—many of whom are members of the Institute. The delegation commended the TOR Managing Director for his confidence in Ghana’s engineering professionals and expressed deep admiration for the level of expertise demonstrated by the workforce. Mr. Kombat, who had initially been invited only as a Guest of Honour, expressed his deep appreciation for the unexpected recognition. He thanked the Institute for acknowledging his efforts and reaffirmed TOR’s commitment to empowering Ghanaian professionals. In concluding his remarks, he stressed that “TOR’s problem over the years has not been about the engineers, but rather a lack of effective leadership.” He further noted that “all the human capacity we need to transform Ghana is here in the country,” reaffirming his belief in Ghana’s technical talent and the importance of strong leadership in unlocking the nation’s potential.      

Ghana: VRA CEO Ing. Obeng-Kenzo Named Energy Personality Of The Year At 9th Ghana Energy Awards

The Chief Executive Officer of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, was on Friday night honoured with the prestigious Male Energy Personality of the Year award at the 9th edition of the Ghana Energy Awards, held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, the capital of Ghana. The annual event, organised by the Energy Media Group and endorsed by the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, celebrates the achievements of CEOs, managing directors, energy-sector professionals, policymakers, business leaders, academic institutions, and civil society organisations driving policy reforms and innovation in the energy sector. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo received overwhelming applause from industry players and scores of VRA staff present at the event as he walked to the stage to receive his award. The honour was presented by Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, renowned international evangelist and member of the awarding panel; Mr. Kwame Jantuah, Chairman of the awarding panel of the Ghana Energy Awards; with support from Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition. In his remarks, Ing. Obeng-Kenzo dedicated the award to the hardworking staff of VRA and its Board Chairman, Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur, praising his exemplary leadership and strategic guidance. He reaffirmed VRA’s commitment to ensuring continuous power generation to support Ghana’s socio-economic development.
Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng Kenzo shook hands with Hon. Richard Gyan‑Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition.
“I promise the ministry and Ghanaians that we will work hard to keep the lights on for economic development,” he assured. The VRA CEO emerged winner ahead of ten other nominees in the category. He received a plaque, a citation, and a stool — a traditional symbol of leadership. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has twenty-four years of experience in the power sector. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration (MPA) and a Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons) in Mechanical Engineering from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. He is also a member of the Ghana Institution of Engineering. Before his appointment as CEO, he served in various leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Executive (Engineering & Operations), Director of the Thermal Generation SBU, Plant Manager of the Tema Thermal Power Complex (TTPC), Operations Manager at TTPC, and Project Manager for the Tema Thermal 2 Power Project (49.5MW Siemens Emergency Power Plant).   Meanwhile, the Volta River Authority also won the Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Excellence Award, recognising its strong commitment to workplace safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

Kazakhstan Tells Ukraine To Stop Attacking CPC Terminal After Oil Exports Halted

Kazakhstan told Ukraine on Sunday to stop attacking the Black Sea terminal of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which handles more than 1% of global oil, after a major drone attack halted exports and seriously damaged loading infrastructure. The CPC, which includes Russian, Kazakh and U.S. shareholders, said it had halted operations after a mooring at its Russian terminal on the Black Sea was significantly damaged by a Ukrainian naval drone attack. Ukraine this year mounted wave after wave of attacks on Russia’s oil refineries and crude oil terminals in an attempt to undermine one of the most important sources of income for the Russian war economy. Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry said the drone attacks were the third such series of attacks on what it called “an exclusively civilian facility whose operation is safeguarded by norms of international law.” Kazakhstan “expresses its protest over yet another deliberate attack on the critical infrastructure of the international Caspian Pipeline Consortium in the waters of the Port of Novorossiysk,” the ministry said. “We view what has occurred as an action harming the bilateral relations of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Ukraine, and we expect the Ukrainian side to take effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.” Ukraine said its actions were not directed against Kazakhstan or third parties and were only aimed at repelling what it called “full-scale Russian aggression”. “Ukraine hits back at the aggressor,” Ukraine’s foreign ministry said. CPC accounts for about 80% of oil exports from OPEC+ member Kazakhstan, which exported about 68.6 million tons of oil last year. It brings crude from the Tengiz, Karachaganak and Kashagan fields of Kazakhstan to the Yuzhnaya Ozereevka terminal at Novorossiysk. CPC’s main suppliers are fields in Kazakhstan but it also collects crude from Russian producers. The CPC’s 1,500 km (930 mile) pipeline includes Russian, Kazakhstan’s state-owned KazMunayGas, and units of Chevron (CVX.N), Russia’s Lukoil (LKOH.MM) and ExxonMobil as shareholders. CPC said on Saturday that a November 29 naval drone attack on its terminal had “significantly damaged” Single-Point Mooring (SPM) 2 – essentially a floating buoy which connects to tankers to load oil. “Further operation of Single Point Mooring 2 is not possible,” CPC said. “Loading operations and other operations were stopped (and) tankers were withdrawn from the CPC water area.” “We believe that the attack on the CPC is an attack on the interests of the CPC member countries,” CPC said. Ukraine says its attacks on infrastructure deep inside Russia are justified as it is fighting for its existence in what it casts as an imperial-style war launched by Russia which has targeted Ukraine’s energy sector ahead of winter. Russia’s foreign ministry says the Ukrainian attacks amount to “acts of terrorism” and Russian officials say European powers are engaged in a hybrid war against Russia, which includes using Western intelligence agencies to help Kyiv target infrastructure deep inside Russia. The ministry said the attacks threaten freedom of navigation in the region.

Ghana: Stop Rushing To Accident Scenes Involving Fuel Tankers To Siphon Fuel – NPA Warns

Ghana’s petroleum downstream regulator, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has cautioned the public against rushing to siphon fuel from Bulk Road Vehicles (BRVs), popularly known as fuel tankers, involved in road accidents. It has become a worrying trend in the West African nation that whenever a fuel tanker is involved in an accident, some residents rush to the scene to collect fuel leaking from overturned or damaged vehicles. Speaking at the National LPG Forum in Accra on Thursday, November 27, the Chief Executive Officer of the NPA, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, described the practice as extremely dangerous and a major threat to public safety. He noted that incidents involving fuel and LPG tankers are highly volatile and expose people to severe risks. “The major accidents that have occurred within the downstream often tend to be associated with LPG. I want to use this platform to encourage as many of our countrymen and women that when an LPG or fuel tanker is down, please don’t go with your gallon or cylinder,” he said. “Your life is more important than GHȼ200 or GHȼ250. If you have life, you can always get the GHȼ250. But you go and fetch petroleum products simply because there is an accident. Beyond it being a question of theft, why do you want to risk your life? At that point, anything can happen,” Mr Tameklo cautioned. According to him, when a tanker carrying thousands of litres of highly combustible product is compromised, any spark—from a dropped metal canister, a running engine, or even static electricity—can trigger a massive explosion. LPG, in particular, poses an even greater threat. It is stored under pressure and, when released, rapidly forms an invisible cloud of gas heavier than air, settling in low-lying areas. This gas cloud is highly flammable and can be ignited by a source far from the crash site.