The National Petrochemical Company (NPC) has implemented operational
measures to optimize energy consumption through the organization of human
resources, consumption management, maximizing production coefficients, and
organizational and extra-organizational interactions.
In an interview with NIPNA, Seyyed Morteza Ashrafi Shahri, the Energy
Optimization Manager at NPC, highlighted the objectives, programs, and
strategies of this energy management in areas such as reducing inefficiencies,
creating added value, ensuring sustainable production, and preventing
environmental pollution.
Objectives and Managerial Background:
Ashrafi Shahri explained, "The overall goal of energy management
is continuous improvement of energy performance. In the National Petrochemical
Company, the structure of energy optimization management has been developed to
reduce inefficiencies, energy intensity, environmental pollution, and increase
operational efficiency through optimal management in equipment, processes, and
human resources."
With a Ph.D. in physical chemistry, Ashrafi Shahri has been involved
in the oil industry since 2005, starting with Arvand Petrochemical Company and
gaining experience in various capacities. He has published several scientific
articles and books in the field of energy and the environment.
Approaches in Energy Sector:
"In order to improve energy performance and comply with legal
obligations, ten specialized energy task forces have been formed, focusing on
various aspects such as equipment, processes, and human resources.
Additionally, a strategic council for energy management, chaired by the Deputy
Minister of Petroleum and CEO of the National Petrochemical Company, has been
established to set energy management goals and promote energy awareness among
senior managers," Ashrafi Shahri stated.
Current Energy Consumption Status and Future Outlook:
Currently, about 9% of the country's gas is consumed by the
petrochemical industry, with 40% used for feedstock conversion and value-added
products, and 60% for fuel. With numerous projects under construction and
expansion, it is estimated that gas consumption for feedstock and fuel will
double in the coming years, revolutionizing the country's economic development.
Collaboration and Interaction:
"In terms of collaboration, specialized working groups and
targeted meetings include representatives from internal companies, the Ministry
of Petroleum, and parallel companies from other ministries. The Research and
Technology Company, as a member, contributes to all aspects of energy
management," said Ashrafi Shahri.
Culture of Energy Optimization:
"In the realm of energy management, human resources play the most
significant role. Tangible and intangible actions are being taken to promote
energy efficiency culture, which, upon full realization, will be recognized by
the industry and society," he emphasized.
Planned Structural Reforms:
Regarding structural reforms, Ashrafi Shahri highlighted the necessity
of organizational structures at all levels of petrochemical companies to
achieve energy management goals, stating that almost all complexes have energy
structures, but enhancing organizational levels is a priority in the agenda of
energy optimization management.
As Iran's petrochemical industry continues its journey towards
sustainable growth, energy management emerges as a cornerstone for achieving
excellence and balancing economic development with environmental stewardship.