Speaking on Saturday, during the 18th Domestic Winter Fuel Coordination Meeting, Tavakoli called on various sectors to recognize the inevitability of this shift and prioritize maintaining residential gas supplies. 

Addressing gas disconnection for vacant properties

Tavakoli noted progress in disconnecting gas for unoccupied villas and seasonal residences but acknowledged that much remains to be done.

He stressed the need for more rigorous inspections and follow-ups, as directed by higher authorities, to ensure gas disconnection for these properties is enforced comprehensively. 

No tolerance for public, commercial noncompliance 

The CEO highlighted the importance of cutting gas supply to malls and public facilities that fail to comply with regulations, warning that failure to do so undermines NIGC’s commitments.

Tavakoli emphasized that these measures would be more effective if coordinated with the Ministry of Energy to disconnect electricity simultaneously. Without power outages, noncompliant units could resort to electric heating, further straining the energy grid. 

Tavakoli added that stricter monitoring of government offices and cutting off gas to non-compliant agencies must also remain a priority.

These actions, he noted, are backed by presidential directives and supervisory bodies’ approvals. Similar firmness is required when dealing with commercial centers and public marketplaces. 

He also praised the direct communication between provincial gas company operations managers and field personnel, such as gas inspectors and emergency teams, noting its positive impact in Tehran.

Tavakoli encouraged other provincial gas companies to adopt this approach to gather valuable on-the-ground data. 

Role of industries and prioritizing households

Tavakoli underlined the role of industrial sectors in optimizing gas consumption, stating that raising awareness among business owners can significantly contribute to public confidence and better consumption management. 

He reiterated that household gas supply remains the company’s top priority, as it does globally during colder months.

“With falling temperatures, energy consumption patterns shift, and heating needs in households increase. Ensuring gas supply to residential users is non-negotiable and cannot be compromised for other sectors,” Tavakoli said. 

The official called for public awareness of the unique nature of Iran’s gas resources, explaining, “A single molecule of gas takes 250 million years to form. Over 76% of the country’s gas is extracted through offshore drilling, which is a rare achievement.”

He urged citizens to appreciate the effort involved in producing and delivering gas, particularly from the southernmost regions to central and northern areas through nationwide pipelines. 

Tavakoli highlighted the critical role of all users in safeguarding this vital energy source, and urged collaboration across sectors to ensure efficient and responsible gas consumption during the cold season.