Minister: Iran aims to generate 30,000 MW of renewables within three years
Abbas Aliabadi, Iran’s energy minister, announced plans to significantly expand the country’s renewable energy capacity, aiming to produce 30,000 megawatts (MW) of renewable electricity within the next three years.
Talking to ILNA, Aliabadi expressed confidence in achieving a 25-fold increase in renewable energy production, stating that the necessary planning and infrastructure development are already underway.
Aliabadi emphasized that the financial resources for the expansion are available within the renewable energy sector itself.
He went on to say that the cost of fuel consumed for traditional electricity generation is substantial, and by adopting advanced technologies, the country can redirect these resources toward renewable energy projects. “If we can meet our energy needs through innovative technological methods, renewable power plants will undoubtedly increase 25-fold within three years,” the minister said.
Aliabadi also expressed optimism that Iran’s renewable energy capacity will reach 3,500 MW by the peak of next summer.
He added that the government is working to create the necessary conditions and infrastructure to achieve 30,000 MW of renewable energy production by the end of the current administration’s term. The measure is part of a broader strategy to increase the share of renewables in the country’s energy portfolio.
Gov’t voices commitment to promoting solar power
On Sunday, the Iranian president emphasized the government’s strong determination to advance the development of solar power infrastructure, stating that the necessary resources for the project have been secured.
He urged contractors and relevant sectors to expedite their efforts, affirming the government’s resolve to remove any obstacles hindering the plan’s implementation.
The cabinet, chaired by Masoud Pezeshkian, convened on Sunday, during which, various ministry-related issues were discussed, and Energy Minister Aliabadi presented a detailed report on the challenges and programs of the ministry, including the latest status of the country’s electricity supply.
The report outlined the ministry’s plans and measures to reduce energy consumption, invest in renewable energy, construct thermal power plants, repair and activate existing power plants, and combat electricity theft, particularly the illegal activities of cryptocurrency miners.
It was noted that 800 MW of stolen electricity related to illegal mining operations have been identified and eliminated.
In a section of the report focusing on the government’s plans to generate 30,000 MW of electricity using solar panels, as well as thermal and wind power plants, Pezeshkian reiterated the government’s firm commitment to advancing the program.
He stated that, through strategic planning and negotiations with Chinese partners, solar panels have been purchased and will be imported.
The necessary resources for the project are available, and contractors and relevant sectors are expected to mobilize swiftly, Pezeshkian said, adding that the government is determined to address any challenges that may arise during the implementation of this initiative.
Iran has long relied on fossil fuels, particularly oil and natural gas, to meet its energy needs. However, in recent years, the country has faced growing challenges including the need to diversify its energy sources.
Renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, has emerged as a key focus for the government as it seeks to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The push for renewable energy is also driven by economic considerations. Iran’s vast geography and favorable climate conditions, particularly in regions like Yazd, Kerman and Khorasan, make it well-suited for solar and wind energy projects. By investing in renewables, the government aims to create new job opportunities, attract foreign investment, and reduce the financial burden of fuel subsidies, which have long strained the national budget.