Gas Overconsumption in Iran: 3.3 Times the Global Average; Saving 50 Million Cubic Meters Possible

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking before Tehran’s Friday prayers, Saeed Tavakoli extended greetings on the occasions of Yalda Night, the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (PBUH), and Mother’s Day. Tavakoli highlighted that while Iran holds the world’s second-largest gas reserves, inefficiency in consumption has led to excessive usage. “Gas Overconsumption”

Tavakoli noted that Iran’s geological structure provides an abundance of natural gas, a resource formed over 250 million years. He underscored the importance of preserving this valuable asset through responsible consumption.

In comparing the state of the gas industry before and after the Islamic Revolution, Tavakoli pointed out a 40-fold expansion in facilities and infrastructure.

“Before the Revolution, the country had one local refinery, one major refinery, and a single nationwide pipeline,” he said. This pipeline exclusively transported processed gas to Russia.

Today, the industry boasts 20 natural gas refineries, 40,000 kilometers of high-pressure pipelines, 94 compression stations, and 459,000 kilometers of urban gas networks, reflecting substantial growth. Tavakoli described the gas sector as one of the most revolutionary, people-oriented, and dynamic industries in Iran.

Tavakoli stated that 860 million cubic meters of gas are currently supplied to the country’s network, with approximately 80% consumed by residential, commercial, and small industrial sectors.

He emphasized that the winter season poses a significant challenge due to plummeting temperatures. To manage consumption, the NIGC has encouraged industries to switch to liquid fuels.

The most effective strategy, according to Tavakoli, is adherence to consumption guidelines. Public institutions such as mosques, government offices, schools, and other facilities must maintain indoor temperatures within the comfort range of 18–22 degrees Celsius.

In households, minor adjustments—like wearing warmer clothing indoors—can significantly reduce consumption. Experts estimate that lowering home temperatures by just one degree Celsius can cut gas usage by 6%.

President Masoud Pezeshkian has introduced a campaign advocating for a two-degree reduction in indoor temperatures. Tavakoli explained that this initiative alone could save 50 million cubic meters of gas daily—equivalent to the output of two phases of the South Pars gas field or the total consumption of three provinces.

Tavakoli reported that 95% of Iran’s population now has access to natural gas, a milestone achieved despite rising demand in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. He stressed the importance of public cooperation in identifying unauthorized gas connections, particularly in luxury estates and private pools.

Citizens are urged to report such violations via the 194 hotline.

Tavakoli concluded by urging mothers to take an active role in managing household gas consumption, helping the country avoid potential crises during the cold season.

With greater awareness and adherence to consumption guidelines, Tavakoli expressed optimism about overcoming challenges in one of Iran’s most critical energy sectors.