Beyond Limits: AI, Energy & the Post-Holiday Reset

In a world where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, the intersection of energy, engineering, and artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and redefine possibilities. This week, we delve into the latest trends that are not only transforming our work environments but also influencing how we approach challenges in our professional lives.

1. DeepSeek is Trending—But Should You Stick with ChatGPT?

DeepSeek, an AI developed in China, is climbing the charts as a free alternative to ChatGPT. Many are excited about its accessibility, but does it deliver?

? Pros: It’s free and widely available.

? Cons: It lacks deep customization, struggles with adaptive learning, and is subject to content restrictions.

The takeaway? If you need an AI tool for casual use, DeepSeek might work. But if your goal is deep integration into workflows—where AI learns, adapts, and becomes an indispensable assistant—personalization is key. Tools like ChatGPT (or our in-house AI, Quine) offer that adaptability.

Experts have highlighted that while DeepSeek shows promise, particularly in technical applications, it may not yet match the creative and user-friendly aspects of ChatGPT. Case studies indicate that for tasks, DeepSeek can outperform ChatGPT; however, for broader applications, users may prefer the latter (More on DeepSeek).

2. Industry Updates – Energy & Engineering

• Malaysia's Energy Sector: ConocoPhillips has acquired Hess Corporation's oil and gas cluster in the South Malay Basin. This acquisition signifies a strategic move to bolster Malaysia’s energy sector by enhancing production capabilities and ensuring a stable supply of oil and gas resources (OEDigital).
• Global Developments: Saipem's drillship has arrived in Egypt for Eni’s Zohr gas field operations. This development is expected to significantly boost offshore energy production in the Eastern Mediterranean, contributing to regional energy security and economic growth (Offshore Energy).
• Renewable Energy Innovations: Floating photovoltaic (FPV) solar farms are emerging as a game-changer in renewable energy. These installations utilize water surfaces for solar panels, reducing land use conflicts while increasing efficiency through cooling effects from water. Their potential for scalability makes them an attractive solution for sustainable energy generation (EV Wind).

3. Post-Holiday Productivity Tips

Getting back into work mode after a break can be tough. Here are three science-backed tips to ease the transition:

• Reintroduce Routine Slowly – Don’t expect to be at 100% immediately. Start with structured, smaller tasks before jumping into deep work.
• Find Something to Look Forward To – Plan small rewards, like a coffee break at your favourite spot or a lunchtime walk to reset your focus.
• Use the “Two-Minute Rule” – If a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. This reduces procrastination and helps build momentum.

Bonus: Creating a post-holiday transition plan (even something as simple as organizing your workspace) reduces stress and increases motivation.

(Post-Holiday Productivity)

4. How Renewable Energy Powers Jobs & the Planet

Did you know? Recent studies show that investing in renewable energy not only helps combat climate change but also creates more jobs than fossil fuels. For instance, solar energy jobs have increased significantly over the past decade, showcasing how sustainable practices can lead to economic growth while benefiting the planet (International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)).

Explore Jobs & Opportunities on Trees Marketplace

Until next time,

Quine and The Trees Engineering Team