Speaking at the "Fifth National Assembly of the Supreme Audit Court of Iran and Financial Deputies of Ministries, Institutions, and State-Owned Companies" on Thursday, he emphasized that the holy month of Ramadan is a time for self-improvement and change, including in energy consumption.

Pezeshkian highlighted the issue of imbalances in resource management, stating, "As Ramadan approaches, a month dedicated to self-reflection, we must ask ourselves: Is our consumption of electricity, gas, gasoline, and diesel correct? Should we keep lights on during the day, turn up heating devices, and open windows to cool down? Proper consumption requires management. The responsibility for managing consumption lies with you, and if we can save just 10%, it could lead to financial savings of up to $20 billion. I believe we can even achieve 50% savings in electricity, water, gas, and building maintenance."

He shared a personal example from his time as a university president, where he reduced energy consumption by closing two floors of a four-story hospital and cutting energy supply to those areas, ultimately halving the workforce and increasing bed occupancy to 50%. "These measures are entirely feasible," he said.

Pezeshkian stressed that proper resource management and reforming consumption patterns could significantly address the country’s challenges. "If we adjust our behavior and change how we use space, equipment, and resources, many of our problems can be resolved," he said.

Reforming consumption patterns: An economic necessity

The president emphasized that reforming consumption patterns is not only an economic necessity but also a behavioral change at the societal level. "These issues are tied to our families and daily lives. If we can achieve this behavioral shift, we can see substantial results," he said.

He pointed out that even small steps, such as reducing gas, electricity, and gasoline consumption during Ramadan, could create a sea of resources and turn conservation into a sustainable culture. "The development plan law states that 2.5% of productivity must come from changing consumption behaviors. This is not only achievable but also simple and practical, with significant impacts on the economy," he added.

Power outages and energy shortages

Pezeshkian acknowledged the country’s energy supply issues, stating, "This year, we were ashamed to cut power to people at times, and this is solely due to our poor consumption habits, both in government and daily life." He emphasized that proper energy resource management could improve the country’s economic situation, create jobs, boost production, and enhance people’s lives.

He criticized excessive electricity and gas consumption, noting, "We build large rooms and light multiple chandeliers when one light would suffice. In many homes, all lights are on without any need for such consumption."

Changing public perception for energy efficiency

The president stressed the need for a shift in public perception to achieve optimal energy use. "If we can save resources, we will not only overcome current challenges but also pave the way for sustainable growth and development," he said.

He called for effective policies to manage consumption, urging the government to reconsider its own consumption patterns. "If we reform our consumption habits, we can meet domestic needs and improve our international standing in energy," he said.

Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of supervision and education in energy management, urging officials to hold training sessions and evaluations during Ramadan. "If we can control electricity, water, and gas consumption and manage heating and cooling properly, many of our shortages will be resolved, and it will directly impact reducing inflation," he said.

Small changes, big savings

He praised media efforts to promote a culture of conservation, noting that reducing heating temperatures by just two degrees has saved millions of liters daily. "If every person turns off two extra lights at home, the collective energy savings would be enormous. Walking short distances instead of driving not only reduces fuel consumption but also benefits our health," he said.

Pezeshkian also highlighted the need to optimize office spaces, suggesting that merging unnecessary spaces and increasing productivity could address many shortages. "Proper resource management reduces costs and improves system efficiency," he said.

Reducing dependency through consumption reform

The president emphasized that reforming consumption patterns is key to reducing the country’s dependency on foreign resources. "This is not just about energy consumption but also about how we view our national resources," he said.

He warned against external threats and enemies exploiting internal mismanagement, urging collective responsibility in resource management. "We must not allow enemies to create tension and crisis through conspiracies. Proper resource management and accountability can help us overcome many challenges," he said.

Unacceptable energy management

Pezeshkian criticized the current state of energy resource management, calling it unacceptable. "This year, we deviated from the right path, and as an Iranian, I find this situation unacceptable. We must ensure such issues do not recur," he said.

He called for precise planning for the coming year, emphasizing that such problems can be prevented. He also urged mosques and religious centers to educate people during Ramadan about avoiding waste and using divine blessings wisely.

Building the future together

The president stressed the role of the people in shaping the country’s future. "The future depends on us, on our consumption patterns, perspectives, and direction," he said. He called on all Iranians to join the movement for national development, stating, "If we unite, we can easily overcome any crisis others try to create for us."

Pezeshkian emphasized the need for collective belief and determination, stating, "The future is not predetermined. It will be what we make of it." He warned of modern warfare tactics, including cognitive and behavioral engineering, used by enemies to influence public opinion and economic trends.

Call for unity in building the future

In conclusion, the president called for unity among the people and officials in building the country’s future. "We must join hands and create a future worthy of the Iranian nation. Everyone can play a role by making small changes in their behavior, work style, and lifestyle," he said.

He thanked managers and officials for their efforts, expressing hope for improved quality, reformed processes, and strengthened supervision. "If we can reach a common understanding and integrate our supervisory tools, achieving accurate data and better management will be easier. But most importantly, it’s about self-improvement," he said.

Pezeshkian concluded, "As Ramadan approaches, it’s the best time to start changing ourselves—our rooms, cars, buildings, and environments. Every small change can be the beginning of significant transformations."