Saeid Tavakoli, referencing the implementation of a resolution by the Supreme Energy Council in Aban last year (November 2024) and a decision by the Economic Council on November 4, 2024, stated that the proposal to accept natural gas deposit certificates on the energy exchange was submitted and approved.

He noted that initially, certificates for 5 billion cubic meters of gas will be issued, and various industries across the country can purchase them.

Emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the energy exchange, Tavakoli added that the National Iranian Gas Company aims to develop financial instruments related to natural gas in cooperation with the exchange. This will facilitate financing, investment, and public participation in the sector.

Highlighting the role of natural gas deposit certificates in optimizing consumption, Tavakoli explained that leveraging the capacity of these certificates will help streamline gas usage. This initiative not only reduces resource waste but also enhances productivity and lowers environmental pollution.

Tavakoli further stated that expanding the gas market on the energy exchange will create new opportunities, ensuring stable gas supply for industries and reducing imbalances.

Referring to the Leader’s emphasis on utilizing private sector capacities, the CEO of the National Iranian Gas Company noted that the gas industry requires significant financial resources and diverse financing tools.

Natural gas deposit certificates can play a crucial role in attracting private sector investment and funding projects in this field.

Tavakoli stressed that this move will accelerate the implementation of gas industry projects, reduce reliance on government resources, and increase private sector participation in the development of this key industry.

He added that issuing gas deposit certificates enables non-governmental entities to invest in upstream and gas fields, obtain certificates, and trade them on the exchange, ensuring confidence in their investments and facilitating project financing.

Previously, the National Iranian Gas Company had secured approval for gas savings certificates on the energy exchange, with trading commencing in Tir 1403 (July 2024).

Natural gas deposit certificates are a new financial instrument for investment financing, involving the trading of securities with a fixed maturity. These certificates guarantee the delivery of a specified volume of natural gas to the holder, backed by the National Iranian Gas Company’s warehouse receipts.