Energy Ministry to back private sector by cutting investment risks
The Energy Ministry is seeking to support the private sector to attract investment by creating an appealing environment and reducing investment risks, Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi said, adding that his ministry is implementing policies to achieve the intended goal.
Speaking on the sidelines of the International Water Industry Exhibition, Aliabadi emphasized the need to provide manageable risks for investors while eliminating unmanageable ones, as reported by ISNA.
He stated that the government will play a role in areas related to the Energy Ministry by creating suitable markets to enable the private sector to fully benefit from its investments.
Aliabadi highlighted that the private sector has already entered the water and electricity industries, with over 35,000 megawatts of proposed investments in the electricity sector.
Regarding water, Aliabadi said the ministry has serious policies to support the private sector in desalination and water recycling.
He also mentioned plans to improve drinking water services and expand investment opportunities through new mechanisms.
Addressing Iran’s water resources, Aliabadi acknowledged that the country is located in an arid region with limited water supplies.
He stressed that Iran cannot follow water-intensive models and must adapt to its geographical conditions.
On the issue of transboundary water rights, Aliabadi said Iran’s policy is to adhere to international commitments and fairness.
He called on neighboring countries to reciprocate in respecting Iran’s water rights, particularly in discussions with Afghanistan over shared water resources.
Regarding agricultural water management, Aliabadi emphasized the importance of shifting to crops that require less water, environmentally compatible farming, and greenhouse cultivation.
While the Energy Ministry is responsible for water supply and promoting efficient water use, the primary responsibility lies with the Ministry of Agriculture, which has detailed plans in this area.
During the exhibition, Aliabadi, accompanied by water industry officials and Parliament members, reviewed the latest achievements of domestic companies in the water and wastewater sectors as industry representatives highlighted their challenges and called for government support.
The 20th International Water and Wastewater Industry Exhibition, themed “Sustainable Iran with Interactive and Technological Management,” was held in Tehran from Wednesday to Saturday. It featured 150 domestic and five foreign companies showcasing the latest technologies in the water and wastewater sectors.