Moslem Rahmani highlighted the recent record-breaking levels of gas production and processing in Iran, with over 855 million cubic meters of refined natural gas injected into the national distribution network daily, reaching over 860 million cubic meters on some days. Despite these efforts, the cold weather has driven a surge in demand. 

"In 20 provinces, temperatures have fallen below zero, increasing gas consumption in residential, commercial, and small industrial sectors to 600 million cubic meters per day—120 million cubic meters more than the same period last year," Rahmani said. These sectors now account for approximately 70% of total gas consumption, marking a 25-26% year-on-year increase. 

Rahmani warned that rising household and commercial gas consumption could strain supply to major industries, industrial parks, and power plants. While power plants can switch to alternative fuels like fuel oil and diesel, this reduces the availability of gas for electricity generation. 

"If gas consumption in residential, commercial, and small industrial sectors exceeds 550 million cubic meters per day, the share of gas allocated to power plants will drop, forcing them to rely more heavily on liquid fuels," he explained. 

Rahmani noted that colder weather arrived a month earlier than last year, with average temperatures dropping by 4-6 degrees Celsius. "For every 1-degree decrease in temperature, household gas consumption rises by 25 million cubic meters, equivalent to the output of one South Pars gas field phase," he said. 

To maintain stable energy supplies, Rahmani emphasized that reducing consumption across all sectors is critical. "The Ministry of Petroleum and the Ministry of Energy are working to ensure a stable supply of gas and electricity, but conserving energy is the only viable solution to address the current imbalance," he added. 

No gas cuts for households 

Rahmani reassured the public that maintaining gas supply to homes and commercial units is a priority. However, he warned that if daily consumption surpasses 680 million cubic meters next week, gas allocation to power plants—currently at 120 million cubic meters—will decrease significantly. Power plants require 230-240 million cubic meters of gas or its equivalent daily to ensure stable electricity production. 

Rahmani stressed that conservation should not be limited to households. In agriculture, greenhouse operators can reduce consumption by 20-25% through simple measures such as adjusting burners and repairing torn coverings. Similarly, inspections of industrial parks and small businesses have revealed excessive consumption, requiring immediate corrective actions. 

"In the past two months, we have informed various sectors about the need for conservation and issued warnings to those exceeding usage norms, such as villa owners, open swimming pools, and commercial heating systems," Rahmani said. 

The director reported gas pressure drops in northwestern provinces, including Ardabil, and northeastern provinces such as South and North Khorasan, due to increased demand. He called for intensified conservation efforts, particularly in northern, central, and northeastern regions, to prevent further disruptions. 

Rahmani concluded by urging all consumers and institutions to cooperate in managing consumption during this critical period.