Iran President Urges Public to Cut Energy Use

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has urged citizens to reduce electricity consumption, calling for restraint even as the country avoids major power shortages.

In a televised address, he asked people to use energy more efficiently, stressing that while the situation does not yet require sacrifice, consumption must be controlled. He suggested simple measures, such as limiting unnecessary lighting at home, to ease pressure on the system.

Pezeshkian said external pressures, particularly from the United States and Israel, are aimed at creating public dissatisfaction by targeting infrastructure and tightening restrictions. Despite ongoing tensions and reported attacks, there have been no widespread power outages in Tehran in recent days.

He warned that attempts to disrupt essential services are intended to undermine stability, but maintained that the current power supply remains intact.

Even before the latest escalation, Iran faced recurring electricity shortages during peak summer and winter periods. According to the International Energy Agency, the country relies heavily on natural gas for power generation, which accounts for nearly 80 percent of its electricity output.

Iran also uses heavy fuel oil, or mazout, in older power plants to supplement supply. However, ageing infrastructure, underinvestment, and long-standing international sanctions have weakened the power grid, making it difficult to meet rising demand.

The president has previously launched public campaigns encouraging energy conservation, reflecting ongoing concerns over the country’s ability to maintain stable electricity supply under strain.