In recent years, Fajr Jam Gas Refinery has taken significant steps to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and reduce emissions through a forward-looking approach and precise planning. Through the implementation of recycling projects, restoration of damaged process trains, and expansion of vital infrastructure such as the fire-fighting network and water supply systems, the complex has not only maintained stable production but has also established a successful model of efficient management in Iran’s gas industry.

Simultaneously, the refinery’s attention to human resource development, local job creation, and technical cooperation with other refineries has solidified its position as one of the country’s leading gas facilities — a complex that, relying on the expertise and experience of Iranian engineers, is advancing the Ministry of Oil’s goals for clean and sustainable energy.

A conversation with Jafar Taheri, head of Engineering and Development at Fajr Jam Gas Refining Company, conducted SHANA, offers a comprehensive overview of the refinery’s development plans, projects, and strategies.

What development projects are currently underway at the refinery, and how do they improve performance?

Fajr Jam is a fully project-oriented refinery, and all development activities are managed with high rigor. Proper financing, precise planning, and focus on scheduling have ensured the successful execution of projects, keeping them firmly aligned with improving performance, increasing capacity, and strengthening production resilience. Given the age of the refinery — established in 1989 — and the wear on air compressors, installing a sixth compressor to boost capacity and replace outdated equipment was essential. This project, now 95% physically complete, is nearing final delivery.

Additionally, the second phase of the installation and commissioning of CCTV systems is in its final stages, enhancing security and surveillance. The first phase had been completed earlier and played a critical role in crisis management during the 12-day conflict. Phase two will be completed by February and will provide full monitoring coverage of all operational units and equipment. Another major project is the development of the condensate terminal at Siraf Port, implemented to facilitate the export of gas condensate, with the engineering contractor being the Gas Engineering and Development Company.

Beyond numerous projects aimed at boosting efficiency, production stability, and safety, Fajr Jam is also carrying out several initiatives under its social responsibility program. One of the most significant is the renovation and expansion of Tohid Jam Hospital, which began in 2023 and has now reached about 71% physical progress. The temporary emergency ward and the multi-purpose building are expected to become operational by late November. The multi-purpose building has already been handed over to the operator. Financial participation in constructing the Baghan–Sarcheshmeh dam and related water transfer infrastructure to provide 3 million cubic meters of drinking and industrial water to the refinery is another major project, with progress at around 91%. Water delivery is expected to begin by late autumn.

What plans are in place to improve processes at the refinery?

Some projects have been implemented using the refinery’s internal capabilities and without high costs. For example, by reorganizing processes and modifying equipment (the phase separation scheme), chemical consumption has been reduced, while production output increased by 20% in gas and 30% in LPG. These measures have resulted in significant improvements in refinery performance and efficiency and also enhanced gas intake from upstream suppliers.

In the field of renewable energy, 30-kilowatt solar panels have been installed on the rooftops of refinery buildings, and another 50-kilowatt solar project is underway at Siraf Port. These projects are designed to utilize clean energy and improve energy efficiency, with expansion expected in the coming years.

What measures have been taken to localize equipment and technologies?

Fortunately, more than 90% of the refinery’s required chemicals are sourced domestically, and critical materials such as amine and other essential supplies have been localized.

What challenges have development projects faced, and how have they been managed?

Economic pressures and sanctions have indirectly affected projects, but through precise planning, reliance on domestic capabilities, and effective financial and procurement management, all projects have progressed uninterrupted. Engineering and operational teams have maintained a strong focus on quality and timing, ensuring projects are completed according to schedule with no disruptions to production stability.

Project progress is monitored through monthly meetings of project stakeholders, ensuring minimal impact from constraints. With accurate financial planning and liquidity management from headquarters, financial and operational challenges have been minimized, and projects are currently advancing without major obstacles — especially the second phase of electronic protection, which includes installation of control systems and CCTV cameras. All required equipment has been procured and delivered to the site, and no supply issues exist. This safety-security project is expected to become fully operational by the end of the year.

At what stage are the refinery’s maintenance and renovation projects?

Annual overhauls are managed with precise planning, and several key actions have been taken this year to maintain production stability, including timely maintenance of sweetening units, power generators, and other critical internal equipment. Plans are also underway to restore two sweetening trains that were damaged during the 12-day conflict, following a scheduled program.

What safety and risk-reduction projects are being implemented at the refinery?

Several projects aimed at enhancing process safety and reducing operational risks are underway. These include the cooling of tanks, tank interconnections, and cathodic protection systems — all of which were completed about three months ago, elevating the refinery’s safety level to the “Safe Side” standard. Additionally, restoration and modernization of the water and fire-fighting network in phase four is in its final stages, while phase five is about to be contracted, further strengthening the refinery’s safety and fire-suppression systems.

To ensure production stability, water transmission pipelines between wells and supply centers have been renovated, and previous leaks eliminated. A water-enhancement project has also been executed to restore the production capacity of underperforming wells to about 1,000 cubic meters per day.

What green-technology and heat-recovery initiatives are being implemented at the refinery?

The refinery is implementing projects aimed at achieving “zero flaring,” and flaring has already been reduced to below 50 percent. Projects related to wastewater treatment and heat recovery are in the contracting stage. The refinery’s water and environmental management systems have also been strengthened to prevent any water leakage or soil contamination — all part of the effort to move toward green technologies and meet sustainable development goals.

Does the refinery plan to collaborate with other refineries and industries in the oil and gas sector?

Fajr Jam is fully prepared to cooperate with other refineries and companies in the oil and gas sector within its mission and mandate. For example, the refinery has used the capacities and services of other gas and oil refineries to restore and restart damaged trains. Such collaborations continue in order to ensure uninterrupted project progress and enhance synergy among companies in the oil and gas industry.

What measures are in place to manage time and resources for the projects?

Fajr Jam’s development projects are monitored and controlled using professional management methods and advanced oversight tools. For example, the hospital construction project is continuously supervised by specialized consultants across technical, legal, and operational dimensions. Weekly and monthly reports are regularly reviewed, and any deviations, liquidity issues, or other challenges are identified and addressed. The primary goal is to ensure all projects are completed and delivered on schedule. To achieve this, advanced project management software and monitoring systems enable engineering teams to prevent delays and potential losses.

What impact do the refinery’s development projects have on local employment?

The development projects at Fajr Jam Gas Refinery have created significant direct and indirect employment opportunities in the region. For example, in the restoration of sweetening trains, process improvements, hospital expansion, and wharf construction projects, hundreds of local workers — especially in reconstruction activities — have been employed. Furthermore, purchasing goods and services from local companies and contractors has generated considerable economic benefits and increased indirect employment in the area.

Interview by

Mojgan Faraji