Sajjad Khalili emphasized that monitoring and tracking petroleum transactions is among the government’s top priorities under the Seventh Development Plan (2024-28).

Speaking on a televised program, Khalili detailed the scope of the integrated monitoring system for petroleum transactions, covering the entire supply chain from oil well production to delivery at refineries, distribution centers, and end-user points.

"This extensive system oversees the production of over 1 billion barrels of oil, 270 billion cubic meters of natural gas, 110 billion liters of petroleum products, and additional byproducts annually," he said.

Khalili noted that the system will involve the installation of metering equipment and the creation of a unified database, aimed to be operational by the end of next year.

He added that 1,306 transaction points have been identified within the oil and gas supply chains, with 588 requiring equipment upgrades or new installations.

Addressing delays in previous plans

Khalili acknowledged that similar initiatives under the Fifth Development Plan failed due to insufficient funding. "For example, in 2013, none of the 80 trillion rials allocated for metering equipment installation was disbursed," he said. The Seventh Development Plan aims to resolve this with secure funding mechanisms, including allocations from oil and gas investment accounts and partnerships with private contractors through barter agreements.

Supporting domestic capabilities

He emphasized the ministry’s support for domestic companies, noting that 28 local firms are now certified to provide metering systems, up from just eight in last year.

Khalili clarified that no foreign certifications are required for domestic suppliers.

Increasing fuel production amid challenges

Despite energy shortages, Khalili highlighted progress in boosting production under the current administration.

Gasoline production has increased by 8 million liters per day, while diesel production has risen by 10 million liters per day.

"However, consumption growth outpaces production. For example, residential and commercial gas use in November rose 25% year-over-year," he said.

The path forward

Khalili called for urgent action to address energy imbalances through consumption reforms and efficiency measures.

"Establishing a Strategic Energy Management Organization will be key to achieving these goals," he concluded.