- Iran Energy Ministry is initiating 14 megaprojects to secure stable electricity and avoid summer power shortages.
- Plans include building 3,629 MW of new capacity, implementing intelligent meters, and a cryptocurrency mining ban.
The Iranian Energy Ministry is gearing up to implement 14 megaprojects to ensure a stable electricity supply and prevent power shortages next summer. Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi announced these initiatives during a meeting with senior officials from the power industry, highlighting that the key to maintaining a reliable electricity supply during peak consumption days will depend on timely upgrades to power stations this winter.
To enhance electricity availability, the ministry plans to conserve water reserves for optimal use of hydroelectric plants and expand the capacity of renewable energy sources. Deputy Energy Minister Homayoun Haeri noted that the plans include constructing power plants with a total capacity of 3,629 MW to reduce outages.
The 14 megaprojects encompass six focused on increasing power generation capacity, two on enhancing the electricity network, two on financing, and three on improving consumption management and optimisation. Additionally, one project is dedicated to maximising the capabilities of the existing network
Haeri also mentioned plans to install smart electricity meters and prohibit cryptocurrency mining to alleviate power shortages further. The head of the Niroo Research Institute (NRI) warned that without action, Iran could face a 25,000-MW power shortfall next summer, up from a 19 MW shortage experienced during the current year’s hottest days.
At the Second International Conference on Air Conditioning and Thermal and Refrigeration Facilities in Tehran, NRI head Majid Amidpour criticised past industrial development that overlooked energy sector needs, contributing to current electricity shortages. He emphasised the necessity for private sector investment, with the Ministry of Energy preparing various financing models to attract investment.
Amidpour also pointed out Iran’s substantial potential in renewable energy sources—such as solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal which, if developed, could significantly address the increasing demand and pressure on the national power grid.