Why does Iran have a low storage capacity?

In terms of storage, the low installed capacities can be explained by the fact that Iran has a high availability of RE sources, particularly wind energy, solar PV and hydropower, which can produce electricity all-year-round (Fig. 6). The total storage capacities soar from 9.7 TWh in the country-wide scenario to 110.9 TWh in the integrated scenario.

What is the main energy resource in Iran?

Natural gas has been the main energy resource in Iran so far with a share of 60% of total primary energy consumption in 2013, following by oil with 38%, hydropower with 1–2%, and a marginal contribution of coal, biomass and waste, nuclear power and non-hydro renewables (BP Group 2014; EIA 2015).

How much energy does Iran use a year?

Energy consumption has stabilised since 2018 and stood at274 Mtoe in 2021. It grew by +3.7%/year between 2010 and 2018. Iran aims to develop its hydrocarbon resources, particularly its gas exports, which have been slowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, on top of the renewed US sanctions and increased geopolitical tensions.

Why is energy use in Iran so inefficient?

Energy use in Iran is inefficient mainly due to huge energy subsidies by the government. The country’s energy intensity is 36 and 27% higher than the global average and the Middle Eastern average, respectively (IEA 2016; The World Bank 2014).

How much oil does Iran have?

Iran’s crude oil reserves account for 10% of the world’s reserves and 13% of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) reserves (EIA 2015). Iran is one of the most energy intensive countries of the world with per capita energy consumption of 35.2 MWh/capita (IEA 2016; Duro 2015; Tofigh and Abedian 2016).

Who controls the energy sector in Iran?

The Ministry of Energy is in charge of the electricity sector and oversees the energy efficiency and renewables policy. Tavanir (Iran Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution Management Company) is the vertically integrated national electricity company and controls 16 regional electricity companies.