According to NPC, Hassan Abbaszadeh emphasized the complex’s vital role in preventing energy loss and converting flare gas into value-added products. He said BIPC is a major contributor to reducing the national gas deficit and supporting the development of downstream industries.

Abbaszadeh highlighted the complex’s strategic role in managing the country’s energy resources, saying the collection of flare gas is one of the industry’s most important national missions. Gas that was once burned off as waste is now converted at Bandar Imam into feedstock and high-value products, making the complex a key player in reducing energy loss.

He also noted the complex’s significant investment in methane processing. In addition to gathering flare gas, he said the volume of methane captured and returned to the national grid is especially important. Much of the associated gas collected by the company is injected directly into the grid, helping offset the country’s gas imbalance.

Recovery of Heavier Gases and Reducing Imbalances

Abbaszadeh said heavier gases are processed and used within the complex, reflecting Bandar Imam’s reliable and influential role in efficient resource management and reducing the national gas deficit.

He also pointed to the complex’s strong record in corporate social responsibility. As one of the country’s largest petrochemical facilities, Bandar Imam plays a major role in both direct and indirect social initiatives, including extensive environmental, development and support programs in the region.

The CEO said one of the most significant environmental projects has been planting and maintaining about 7 million trees around the complex — an ongoing effort that reflects its long-term environmental commitment. In addition, the mercury-removal project across several units has been a major step to protect the environment and public health.

Extensive Job Creation

Abbaszadeh underscored the complex’s social impact, saying more than 12,000 people — both full-time staff and contractors — work at the site, making Bandar Imam one of the region’s key centers for employment and economic development.

He said the complex’s diverse product slate has enabled the creation of large downstream industries in the region.

Referring to the “New BIPC” development plan, the deputy oil minister said he hopes the next phase will lead to new units and new products, significantly increasing the complex’s value in coming years.

Abbaszadeh also reviewed the complex’s history, noting that Japanese companies were heavily involved in its early construction. However, during the Iran-Iraq War, repeated airstrikes forced them to leave. Photos and documents show the complex was targeted multiple times. Fortunately, the facility was not yet operational, and despite the Japanese withdrawal — when progress had reached about 80 percent — NPC continued the work. The units were ultimately completed and commissioned in 1993 and 1994.