The Iranian Ministry of Energy is implementing 60 operational measures aimed at ensuring stable energy supply throughout the winter and mitigating potential consequences of fuel shortages. According to a representative of the country's energy sector, liquid fuel reserves at power plants remain at a satisfactory level.
Ehsan Zabiakhzadeh stated that over 80 percent of the fuel consumed by thermal power plants is natural gas, and most facilities are designed to operate primarily on gas. Liquid fuel is used as a reserve to enhance grid reliability and compensate for potential gas supply restrictions, he added, citing IRIB.
Zabiakhzadeh noted that gas supplies to power plants and liquid fuel reserves are currently in a favorable position. Liquid fuel reserves are approximately equivalent to the level from a year ago when reserves were particularly strong, and the trend this year has also remained positive so far.
Some storage capacities still need to be filled, but it is expected that the remaining reservoirs will reach full capacity in the coming days and weeks as winter approaches, with the assistance of the Ministry of Oil, he reported.
Nevertheless, Zabiakhzadeh emphasized that maintaining reliable electricity supply throughout the winter will depend not only on initial readiness but also on continuous gas distribution and timely delivery of liquid fuel.
Authorities have designated a roughly 100-day period starting in mid-December as the main preparation window for winter and have coordinated plans with the Ministry of Oil to ensure power plants are supplied with fuel, he added.
60 measures to manage winter restrictions
Zabiakhzadeh stated that attacks, which Iranian officials attribute to Israel and the United States, damaged gas supply infrastructure, leading to a reduction in part of the country's gas supply capacity compared to last year, according to statements from Ministry of Oil officials.
In response, the power sector has developed 60 operational measures to overcome the 100-day winter period with minimal disruptions. He reported that the implementation of these measures is proceeding satisfactorily.
Key steps include timely completion of necessary power plant maintenance, accelerating the development of renewable energy sources to increase electricity generation without consuming fuel, advancing maintenance at the national nuclear power plant for its commissioning at the beginning of the cold season, and optimizing hydropower.
Improving the efficiency of thermal generation is also a priority, Zabiakhzadeh noted. Authorities aim to maximize the use of high-efficiency generating units and reduce diesel fuel consumption, especially in northern Iran, where power plants face a higher risk of fuel supply limitations.
Increased attention is being paid to the maintenance of the power grid and main energy transmission lines compared to previous years, as authorities strive to minimize transmission bottlenecks that could restrict electricity supply in winter.
Energy saving remains a priority
Zabiakhzadeh stressed that coordination between various sectors was vital for managing energy consumption and maintaining a reliable electricity supply throughout the cold season.
He stated that government institutions and public organizations must set an example in energy saving, and all electricity and gas consumers must help manage demand.
Reducing energy consumption can lessen the impact of potential fuel shortages, Zabiakhzadeh added, emphasizing that savings must extend beyond the winter. Even small savings can have a significant impact if they are sustainable and adopted as a long-term practice.