27 January 2025 - 11:05
  • News ID: 653359
Optimizing consumption could save over $100b

SHANA (Tehran) - Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf emphasized that raising energy prices is not the only solution to address energy imbalances,stating that the public must be involved in reducing energy consumption, and their benefits should be considered, allowing them to share in the resources. 

Only then can the issue be addressed accurately and effectively.

Speaking at a meeting of the Parliament’s Industries and Mines Committee on Sunday evening, attended by Industry, Mine, and Trade Minister Mohammad Atabak and Communications and Information Technology Minister Sattar Hashemi, Qalibaf noted that plans have been developed in meetings of the heads of branches of government, the Supreme Economic Council, the Supreme National Security Council, and Parliament to address energy imbalances. 
He described the energy imbalance as both a threat and a significant opportunity. 
"If we manage this correctly, there is no better path than optimizing consumption, which could undoubtedly add over $100 billion to the nation’s wealth and help manage it effectively. Generating the same amount of revenue through production would require far more resources," he said.

Highlighting the importance of optimizing energy consumption and the key role of the Energy and Industries Committees, Qalibaf added that the Parliament has addressed missing links in economic growth through legislation and that sufficient laws are in place. 
"No one at this meeting mentioned a legal void, so we must help the government implement these laws. If there are issues, we should assist in resolving them or even amend the laws if necessary," he said.

Qalibaf stressed the importance of implementing the Seventh Development Plan and macro policies, noting that while laws exist on all matters, the critical issue is their enforcement, which is lacking. 
"This is far worse. The Industries Commission plays a vital role here and must continuously follow up. A dedicated team should be formed within the commission to focus on energy issues," he said.

He pointed out that the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade is both the largest energy consumer and a key player in reducing consumption through standardization. 
"Today, we see power plants being built without access to gas feedstock. Such issues don’t arise overnight. When 90% of electricity production relies on gas, these problems emerge," he said.

Qalibaf noted that coal accounts for zero percent of electricity production in Iran, while globally, 33% of electricity is generated from coal. "When our energy production portfolio lacks diversity, we face an unsustainable situation," he said.

He warned that if energy systems are not updated within the next decade, Iran’s energy exports will become uncompetitive and non-compliant with standards. 
"This is a looming danger. We have already wasted too much time, and further delays are unacceptable," he said.

Qalibaf announced that the head of the Energy Optimization and Strategic Management Organization will soon be appointed by the president. Addressing energy imbalances will be pursued through short- and medium-term measures under the Seventh Development Plan, ensuring that every individual in the country knows their energy allocation through digital energy credits.

News ID 653359

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