Iran has significantly increased natural gas deliveries to power plants this year, surpassing both last year’s figures and the government’s planned targets, according to the CEO of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC).
Saeed Tavakoli announced that since the beginning of the year (March 2025), gas delivery to power plants has exceeded NIGC’s target plan by more than 3.5 billion cubic meters compared to the same period last year. Notably, in the first nine days of Azar (late November–early December), deliveries exceeded the Oil Ministry’s schedule by 32 million cubic meters per day.
Tavakoli explained that the planned gas delivery for November was 136 million cubic meters per day, but despite sustained cold weather across the country, the average daily delivery reached 168 million cubic meters, highlighting the ministry’s effective network management.
On November 30 alone, power plant consumption peaked at 173 million cubic meters, reflecting careful planning and operational efficiency during the cold season.
Historically, Iran has faced recurring challenges in winter, as domestic gas demand soars for both residential heating and electricity generation.
In the first six months of the current Iranian calendar year, 43% of the total gas delivered to the national network was consumed by power plants to ensure sufficient liquid fuel reserves for the winter months.
Iran holds the world’s second-largest proven gas reserves, yet seasonal surges in consumption often stress infrastructure and require careful balancing of domestic needs with industrial and export commitments.
Winter shortages have previously led to temporary power cuts and the increased use of alternative fuels. This year, improved planning and higher delivery volumes to power plants aim to prevent such disruptions and maintain stable electricity production even during periods of peak demand.
Beyond domestic supply, Iran’s ability to maintain high winter gas deliveries has strategic implications for its energy export ambitions. Ensuring a stable domestic supply enables Tehran to continue gas exports to Turkey and Iraq without compromising local electricity needs. This balancing act also strengthens Iran’s position in regional energy markets, allowing it to leverage surplus production for revenue while mitigating the risk of winter shortages.
Analysts note that effective winter gas management could enhance Iran’s credibility as a reliable energy supplier, despite ongoing geopolitical challenges and sanctions affecting its broader energy trade.
