Infrastructure deficiencies and energy waste have been identified as the main factors of gas imbalance in Iran. This imbalance has turned into a structural challenge in the country's economy, going beyond increased consumption in the cold seasons and relating to issues such as weak consumption management and resource waste in the production and transmission chain.
Gas Waste and Resource Imbalance
Although increased household consumption and the use of energy-intensive heating equipment in the cold seasons are cited as the main factors in gas imbalance, the share of energy waste in this process should not be overlooked. Aging equipment, leaks in transmission lines, and the poor performance of some facilities are among the factors that can waste part of the country's valuable resources before reaching the final consumer.
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According to Hashem Orayi, a senior energy expert, leaks in faucets and aging connections are among the issues that should be considered when calculating gas losses. He emphasizes that the smell of gas in some urban areas indicates these leaks and highlights the need for continuous inspection and identification of leak points.
The Necessity of Modernizing Equipment and Infrastructure
Orayi also states that reducing gas losses can alleviate some of the pressure on the network. However, the effectiveness of this action on the overall imbalance depends on the actual extent of the leaks and their share of the losses. Decisions on modernizing or repairing equipment should be based on the technical condition of the equipment and economic feasibility.
Arash Najafi, head of the Energy Commission of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, mentions that the reconstruction of the network and replacement of aging equipment should be based on expert assessments. He further points to the condition of aging connections, faucets, and equipment in the gas distribution network.
Given the current situation and existing challenges in gas supply, modernizing infrastructure and reducing energy waste should be coupled with increasing production and managing demand to prevent further crises.
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