Energy Storage Push in South Asia: Pakistan’s NEPRA approved making Battery Energy Storage Systems mandatory for wind/solar bidders in an upcoming 800MW auction, requiring BESS to cover at least 10% of proposed capacity to tackle “duck curve” issues. Grid Flexibility in India: SECI invited bids for a 50MW/100MWh standalone, two-hour battery project under short-term tariff-based competitive bidding, with a pre-bid meeting set for Sept 8 and bids due Sept 30. China-Russia Gas and Power Links: Russia’s Novak said Gazprom will deliver 50 bcm of gas to China in 2026 via Power of Siberia, while China’s vice premier Ding urged deeper energy cooperation and “AI-energy” collaboration. LNG Supply to China: Novak also said Russia ranks among China’s top three LNG suppliers, with Arctic projects and the Northern Sea Route key for shipments. Oil Market Volatility: European gas prices ended the week higher as Middle East tensions and Strait of Hormuz uncertainty lifted supply concerns, with TTF rising toward a weekly gain. Ukraine Diplomacy vs Oil Reality: Jaishankar said India stays in contact with both Russia and Ukraine and backs dialogue, while defending Russian oil purchases as separate from ending the war. Tech and Energy Security Angle: A UK-focused report warned Chinese chips in internet-linked farm machinery could create a “hidden security risk” to food production.