Iran's Gas Sector Prepares 12 Scenarios for Winter

National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC) has developed 12 operational scenarios to strengthen emergency preparedness and ensure the safe and stable supply of natural gas during the winter season, a senior official said.

According to the Iranian Gas Transmission Company, Alireza Shokouhian, director of HSE and passive defense at NIGC, announced the plan during the 90th meeting of the Oil Ministry’s HSE Managers Coordination Council.

Shokouhian said closer cooperation among different segments of the oil and gas industry plays a key role in improving organizational readiness and enhancing emergency management capabilities.

Emphasizing the company’s responsibility to maintain a reliable energy supply, he said gas transmission and distribution operations require continuous preparedness, rapid decision-making and accurate forecasting, as even minor disruptions can affect a large number of consumers.

Referring to the challenges posed by the cold season, Shokouhian said all operational units must maintain a heightened level of readiness as gas consumption rises during winter months. Planning, he added, should ensure a swift and effective response to any unforeseen event.

He said the 12 operational scenarios were designed to improve preparedness, strengthen coordination among different sectors and enhance response capabilities during emergencies. Operational regions and provincial gas companies are expected to play an active role in developing, reviewing and implementing the plans.

Shokouhian identified specialized emergency drills, reviews of operational procedures, continuous risk assessments and workforce training as key requirements for winter preparedness. Greater coordination and readiness across the sector, he said, will improve the ability to manage complex situations and maintain the stability of the national gas network.

He also commended the performance of Gas Transmission Operation Region 8 and the East Azerbaijan Provincial Gas Company for their handling of emergency situations, saying their timely response, organizational cohesion and effective use of technical expertise helped control incidents and ensure uninterrupted service. - Shana