Resolving Energy Challenges in Industry Is Gov’t Top Priority for Ensuring Economic Growth

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking on Tuesday, at the National Day of Industry and Mining ceremony, President Pezeshkian said: “The survival and resilience of our country are defined through industry and commerce.” Quoting the words of Imam Ali (AS), he explained that while society consists of diverse classes, its stability ultimately depends on the activity of merchants and industrialists. He stressed that the work of all civil and military institutions derives meaning from the efforts of producers, traders, and industrial leaders.

The president highlighted existing challenges in the production sector and added: “From the very beginning of our administration, the country has been in an all-out economic war. Our adversaries are determined to prevent us from trading and developing. Yet despite their efforts, you – the nation’s industrious producers and entrepreneurs – have continued to push the country forward.”

Pezeshkian acknowledged structural imbalances across different sectors, noting: “I am not here to blame anyone, but the truth is we suffer from disequilibrium in water, electricity, and energy. For instance, in medicine, before a heart operation can be performed, several physicians must examine the patient and share their findings. Surgery itself is a team effort, and post-operation care is handled by yet another team. If complications arise, no one simply points fingers; instead, the medical staff work together to find the root cause and resolve it. Likewise, with our energy imbalances, we must prioritize problem-solving over assigning blame.”

He explained that a group of experts and senior managers has been convened to design solutions to these imbalances. For example, academics suggest that if water consumption were reduced by three billion cubic meters, the water imbalance could be solved. However, the question remains: how should this reduction be achieved, and which sectors should bear the cut without creating new crises?

According to the president, the root of the challenge lies in the absence of balance between resources and consumption: “True development is about aligning resources with usage. If we ignore this balance, nature itself will deliver harsh consequences. Unfortunately, our country has pursued expansion without due regard to its actual capacities, and this flawed approach still persists.”

He stressed that bold decisions are required to overcome the crisis: “We must take significant steps in the fields of fuel, water, and electricity to bring the country out of crisis. Yet these decisions must be carefully designed so their adverse effects are minimal.”

Pointing to the administration’s strategic direction, Pezeshkian underlined the importance of renewable energy: “We are actively working to install solar panels nationwide in order to harness clean, pollution-free energy. Industrialists can greatly contribute by investing in solar infrastructure. Without reliable energy, investment and development cannot be sustained. Therefore, all branches of government must join forces to resolve our energy challenges.”

The president acknowledged shortcomings in past policymaking: “Development without energy is meaningless. Despite our efforts, we were unable to fully prevent power and gas cuts to industries. Years ago, as lawmakers, we pushed for expanding the gas network across the country, unaware that gas reserves themselves were insufficient. These sector-specific decisions, taken without considering the whole picture, have led us to today’s difficulties.”

He emphasized the need for responsibility rather than blame: “All of us, in one way or another, share responsibility for the current situation. But blaming each other is futile; what matters is finding real and scientific solutions.”

The president also addressed the problem of illegal cryptocurrency miners consuming massive amounts of electricity: “Reports show that illegal mining operations were using as much as 2,000 megawatts of electricity before we intervened. We suspect that some remain active. We are exploring new technologies and data-driven methods to shut down these unauthorized operations. The government is fully determined to end the electricity imbalance and its consequences.”

Pezeshkian praised the unprecedented level of unity among state leaders: “Today, the cooperation and harmony among the heads of the three branches of government are unmatched in recent history. We are united in our mission to resolve the challenges facing producers and industrialists. None of our decisions aim to create obstacles for you; rather, they are designed to find solutions, though this requires persistence and patience.”

He linked foreign diplomacy with economic opportunities: “During every foreign trip, I invite industrialists and traders to propose ideas for trade and economic cooperation. These visits are meant to open new avenues for commerce. If you see obstacles, share them with us so we can work on removing them.” “Energy Challenges”

Reaffirming the government’s slogan of national unity, he noted: “We need dialogue and mutual understanding, not conflict. Israel and the United States have failed to achieve their objectives largely because of our internal cohesion. This unity must be preserved. Our people are not divided into ‘left’ or ‘right’ camps, even though diverse viewpoints exist. What unites us is our collective determination to defend the dignity and independence of our nation.” “Energy Challenges”

The president warned against intolerance: “Differences of opinion are natural. No one should believe that others must think exactly like them, or brand those with different views as traitors or enemies. All segments of society contribute in their own way to the nation’s strength and honor.”

Recalling the resilience of the nation during the recent 12-day war, he said: “It was you, the industrial and economic units, who stood at the front line against the aggression of the U.S. and Israel. Your efforts denied the enemy their goals. Our duty now is to provide the conditions for your prosperity. Just as the people courageously resisted in those days, we as officials must see ourselves as servants of the people, committed solely to solving their problems.”

Earlier in the day, President Pezeshkian honored 17 leading figures from the industrial and mining sectors with commemorative plaques. In total, 79 entrepreneurs and industrial actors were recognized at the event.