Sepahdar Abbaszadeh, detailing the overhauls of the 35 oil and gas platforms this year, noted that the annual maintenance of South Pars gas platforms is conducted in the first half of the year. This ensures Pars Oil and Gas Company—which supplies over 70% of Iran’s consumed gas and more than 40% of its gasoline—is prepared for the colder second half of the year.

He added that the overhauls typically begin in Farvardin (late March) or early Ordibehesht (April) and continue until late Mehr (October). This year, overhauls of 35 platforms were planned, with 16 already completed, one in progress, and the rest on track to be finished on schedule.

Abbaszadeh explained that the duration of each platform’s maintenance depends on the scope of work required. So far, 6,150 work orders have been completed, totaling 54,759 man-hours.

Key tasks during the overhauls include replacing 32-inch bends, repairing and replacing 15-ton valves, inspecting and repairing high-pressure tanks, testing platform control systems, and servicing flare ignition and lighting systems, as well as calibrating pressure safety valves.

He emphasized that gas production continues at maximum capacity during overhauls, with only two to four platforms under maintenance at any given time while the rest operate at full capacity to meet domestic and industrial demand.

These operations are carried out under harsh conditions in the hot climate of southern Iran and the Persian Gulf by Pars Oil and Gas Company specialists to ensure the country benefits from the field’s full gas production capacity in winter.

Countering sanctions, relying on domestic capabilities

When asked about the impact of sanctions on equipment and part procurement, Abbaszadeh acknowledged that sanctions have had an effect, but contrary to some claims, over 90% of operational parts are now domestically produced through localization and the use of Iranian new technology-based firms (NTBFs).

He stated that all previously inaccessible parts due to sanctions have been manufactured domestically using high-quality materials and modern standards, ensuring no decline in platform efficiency.

Abbaszadeh highlighted the role of domestic companies in producing advanced technology equipment, noting that most previously imported parts have been replicated, produced, or repaired locally. As a result, there have been no disruptions in production or maintenance quality, with domestic alternatives effectively replacing foreign products.

Iran’s position in the global gas industry 

While acknowledging that Iran still has progress to make to reach global benchmarks, Abbaszadeh said continuous advancement and resilience against challenges are key to the oil industry’s success. He noted that Iran is gradually localizing even the most sensitive gas industry components, including downhole equipment, relying on the expertise of young Iranian engineers.

Despite recent security challenges and conflict, he stressed that maintenance and production were not halted for even a single day during the 12-day war.

Transporting personnel and equipment was difficult due to the lack of helicopter flights, forcing some workers to travel up to 48 hours by land to reach the South Pars field on the Iran-Qatar maritime border. Nevertheless, operations proceeded without disruption.

Abbaszadeh praised the dedication of Pars Oil and Gas Company employees, noting that near 100% household access to natural gas is one of the Oil Ministry’s key achievements in recent years. He expressed hope for further improvements in gas supply for the country.