He emphasized the industry's goal to celebrate the cessation of gas
flaring by 2025.
During a press conference at the 15th International Petrochemical
Industry Conference (IPF), Shahmirzaei outlined NPC's reviewed strategy for
stalled and incomplete projects over the past three years.
The conference, a pivotal event for the petrochemical sector, will
take place virtually on August 4-5, with participation from industry experts,
scientists, policymakers, and diplomats, showcasing global advancements to
enhance Iran's standing in the petrochemical arena.
Key objectives for the conference include presenting achievements from
four continents, improving processes, identifying and preventing environmental
pollution, strengthening cooperation between the petrochemical industry and
financial institutions, and unveiling advanced processes and innovative
technological proposals.
Shahmirzaei highlighted significant efforts by NPC to prevent gas
flaring, resulting in substantial successes.
He announced that all associated gases from East and West Karun fields
would be collected by the end of next year, thanks to projects like the
Houyezeh Gas Refinery, which processes these gases into valuable petrochemical
feedstock.
Further, he mentioned the activation of NGL 3100, which daily collects
associated gases from multiple fields, and investments by Bid Boland Gas
Refinery and Marun Petrochemical Company to end flaring in East Karun, aiming
for a complete shutdown of flares and preventing the wastage of national
wealth.
Addressing carbon management, Shahmirzaei noted Iran's plans and NPC’s
leadership in carbon capture, supply chain logistics for goods and equipment,
and managing water and electricity supply in the petrochemical industry, which
will be discussed at the IPF.
Reflecting on the industry's history, Shahmirzaei noted that despite a
strong resource base, significant progress in petrochemical development
occurred post-1979, with over 80 plants now operational, compared to only six
before the revolution. The installed capacity is set to exceed 100 million tons
by the end of this year.
On hard currency generation, Shahmirzaei reported that the industry
supplied $12 billion in 2021, doubling its target, with favorable sales despite
global price declines. A shift in product sales strategies also increased
domestic supply, contributing to economic resilience.
During the Q&A session, Shahmirzaei addressed technological and
localization efforts, stating that Iran is now capable of designing and
producing its petrochemical equipment and chemicals, with significant
advancements made in technical knowledge.
In conclusion, Shahmirzaei extended gratitude to the media and
journalists supporting the petrochemical sector's development over recent
years.
The 15th International Petrochemical Industry Conference (IPF), hosted
by NPC under the theme "Clean Technology," will be held at the IRIB
Conference Center on August 4-5.