Ghodrat Taheri, a researcher in renewable energy economics, has explored the natural and economic capacities of Ilam Province and the possibility of using clean energy to shape a new development model. This province, with its oil and gas resources, water, agricultural lands, and potential for solar and wind energy, is recognized as one of the areas suitable for the development of renewable energy.
Diversity of Resources and Infrastructure
Ilam is located in the southwest of the Zagros mountain range and includes mountainous areas, heights, and plains. This natural diversity creates obstacles for the development of infrastructure but can be turned into an advantage from the perspective of renewable energy. Therefore, identifying suitable areas for solar power plants and regions with wind energy potential is essential.
Read more: Khorasan Razavi Production: The War Could Not Turn Off the Industry's Light
Simultaneous Management of Water and Energy
The amount of sunlight and wind speed alone is not a suitable criterion for establishing a power plant. The real capability of each region should be determined considering a set of factors. Water resources are also another important capacity of Ilam that can be taken into account within the framework of simultaneous management of water and energy. One of the proposed suggestions is to investigate the possibility of using floating solar systems on reservoir dams.
A floating solar power plant alongside a hydropower plant can utilize the flexibility of the hydropower plant to compensate for fluctuations in solar production. Additionally, covering part of the reservoir's surface with floating panels can reduce water evaporation.
Economic Chain of Renewable Energies
The development of renewable energies can create a new economic chain in the province that includes various stages from study and site selection to the construction and maintenance of power plants. This economic chain can provide a platform for knowledge-based companies and specialized contractors and respond to the new labor market needs in the province.
The border position of Ilam and its proximity to Iraq is another economic advantage for this model. The Mehran border can become part of the supply chain and regional trade of energy and equipment related to clean energies. Consequently, the development of renewable energy resources in Ilam can lead not only to increased electricity production but also to the creation of new job and economic opportunities.
Read more: Controversial Report of Optical Cable Corporation: Revenues and Challenges in Q3 2026 · Review of Distributed Solar Power Plants: Is It Time for Change?
