Iran’s energy crisis is a stark reminder of the impact of sanctions, mismanagement, and under-investment on the country’s economy. Despite having vast oil and gas reserves, Iranians are facing daily power cuts and fuel shortages, highlighting the urgent need for reform and investment in the country’s energy infrastructure.
President Pezeshkian has acknowledged the government’s struggles to pay workers and has tapped into the National Development Fund to cover expenses. The decision to cut subsidies and raise fuel prices is a controversial one, as it could lead to further inflation and social unrest, as seen in the deadly protests of 2019.
Sanctions have also limited Iran’s access to new technology, hindering the country’s ability to increase output and meet domestic energy demands. The government’s decision to prioritize public health by reducing the burning of heavy fuel oil at power stations has been met with skepticism, as some believe it is a cover-up for the country’s dwindling fuel supplies.
As Iran grapples with its energy crisis, the prospect of renewed negotiations with the west remains uncertain. The country’s strategic conflicts with Israel and the legacy of the Trump administration’s „maximum pressure“ campaign have further complicated the situation.
Ultimately, the energy shortages in Iran serve as a sobering reminder of the complex challenges facing the country, despite its abundant natural resources. Addressing these challenges will require a combination of economic reform, investment in infrastructure, and diplomatic engagement with the international community.
Südpars, das größte Erdgasfeld der Welt, das der Iran mit Katar teilt, deckt über 70 Prozent des Gasbedarfs des Landes ab. Die Produktion aus dem Feld auf der iranischen Seite des Golfs ist jedoch stark rückläufig.
„Wir haben es versäumt, angemessen in die Upstream-Öl- und Gasindustrie zu investieren. Wir erleiden enorme Verluste, weil wir es versäumt haben, das Südpars-Gasfeld zu entwickeln, während Katar die Gewinne einfährt“, sagte Behrouzifar.
Die Situation bleibt vorerst düster. In diesem Winter wird erwartet, dass der Iran täglich einen Mangel von 260 Millionen Kubikmetern Erdgas haben wird. „Das Ungleichgewicht wird weiter wachsen, es sei denn, wir lösen unsere Probleme mit der Welt“, sagte Behrouzifar.
Datenvisualisierung von Alan Smith.