Despite being a country with huge oil and gas reserves[1][2]Iran suffers from a severe energy crisis. The Iranian energy crisis is a multifaceted problem that has been exacerbated by a combination of factors, including bad governance, foreign policy failures, and the dominance of industries under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). As of November 2024 Iran faces its most severe energy crisis in decades, with frequent power outages and disruptions to natural gas supplies.[3] The country's energy infrastructure is outdated and in disrepair, with many refineries and power plants operating below capacity. Iran's energy supply is unreliable, with frequent blackouts and shortages affecting daily life, industries, and essential services. The IRGC's control over key industries, including power generation and distribution, has hindered efficient management and strategic planning. The regime's prioritization of political and economic interests over efficient management and infrastructural development has exacerbated the crisis.[4]
Despite ongoing power shortages, Iran continues to export electricity, with a surge of nearly 92% in the first four months of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022.[5][6][7][8]