Saeid Tavakoli said sustained network stability requires effective public participation alongside simultaneous infrastructure upgrades, expansion of energy service companies and reductions in losses across the production-to-distribution chain.

According to the NIGC, Tavakoli made the remarks Wednesday during the 17th winter fuel coordination meeting, held via videoconference with headquarters officials, provincial gas company CEOs and operational zone managers. He praised gas industry workers for their round-the-clock efforts.

Managing about 85% of gas consumption in the household and commercial sectors and keeping the network stable at consumption levels exceeding 700 million cubic meters per day — across the country’s vast geography, particularly in the north, northeast and northwest — was no simple task, he said, calling the achievement the result of solidarity, accountability and effective performance across all sectors.

Tavakoli warned of a new cold wave beginning Wednesday afternoon and expected to affect the western regions over the next three to four days before spreading nationwide. Under no circumstances should operational readiness be relaxed, he said, adding that full, 100% readiness must be strictly maintained, especially in areas that have already experienced severe cold or are likely to face harsh conditions.

The deputy oil minister for gas affairs said the high consumption is not limited to one or two days and is expected to persist as the cold weather continues. He urged provincial officials to implement all decisions issued by the central dispatch control center without hesitation or delay, noting that even if temperatures rise slightly in some areas, overall conditions remain wintry and critical.

Coordinated Planning Key to Network Stability

Tavakoli cited the signing of contracts between the gas industry and energy service companies as a milestone in optimizing consumption and managing demand. He said the achievement was the result of coordination across multiple levels, including parliament, the government — particularly the Oil Ministry — the Planning and Budget Organization and specialized units within the NIGC, ultimately moving the concept of energy service companies from policy to action.

He stressed that energy service companies are a clear legal obligation, not a ceremonial or optional measure, and that provinces must implement the program seriously. Acting as an intermediary between the gas company and consumers, he said, these companies are among the most effective — and in some respects unique — tools for managing energy consumption.

Tavakoli also emphasized the need for precise planning of major overhauls at refineries and operational zones, preventing repeated shutdowns, cleaning scrubbers and CGS equipment, and maintaining full coordination with dispatching operations. Preserving network stability in the coming weeks, he said, will require cohesion, precision and the continuation of the current approach.