Last winter, South Pars set a daily gas extraction record of 716 million cubic meters, with average daily output increasing by 9 million cubic meters in the current Iranian calendar year (started March 21) compared to the same period last year. Achieving a 99.4% efficiency rate in rich gas extraction from the platforms reflects a cohesive strategy toward maximizing production.  

This accelerated effort, which led to peak gas extraction during last year’s cold season, is now focused on another critical task: major maintenance of South Pars gas platforms.  

Alireza Sarmadi, the production and operations manager, highlighted key measures taken in recent months, stating that his team has worked to swiftly identify challenges and opportunities while ensuring comprehensive production management. Efforts included resolving pending tasks, reorganizing maritime and aviation tenders—some already completed or nearing completion—and finalizing delayed procurement tenders for chemicals, batteries, explosion-proof lights, and other equipment.  

He also mentioned revising estimates and tender documents for repainting certain gas platforms, a previously stalled project now in the contractor selection phase.  

Strengthening pipeline, riser integrity  

Sarmadi stressed the importance of reinforcing risers on South Pars platforms, noting the replacement of a defective riser from previous maintenance, reinforcing thinned risers with minimal production downtime, and advancing tenders for pipeline and riser reinforcement.  

He described submarine pipeline pigging as a mandatory strategy for managing South Pars platforms, with tender processes accelerated and now at the shortlisting stage for qualified contractors.  

Additionally, repairs on 32-inch valves from last year’s maintenance were prioritized to prevent disruptions in platform pigging. Over the past six months, five valves were repaired using in-house capabilities and outsourced contracts, with installation pending.  

Planning for peak gas production 
 
Regarding major maintenance of gas turbines on South Pars platforms, Sarmadi said one turbine was overhauled by a qualified contractor late last year and is in final preparation stages for return. Tenders for three more turbines are at the contractor selection phase.  

With major maintenance critical to platform safety and efficiency—and to supplying over 70% of Iran’s winter gas demand—33 South Pars production platforms will undergo maintenance over six months (April 21–October 22).  

Sarmadi expressed hope that recent corrective measures and this year’s comprehensive maintenance plan will enable Pars Oil and Gas Company to successfully maximize gas output and meet national demand.