TEHRAN – Iran plans to expand its renewable energy capacity to 7,000 megawatts by the next Iranian calendar year (begins late March 2026), up from current levels, an energy official said.

Jafar Mohammadzadeh, deputy head of investment at the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization (SATBA), told IRIB that the government has accelerated solar and other renewable projects, targeting a sharp increase in output. He noted that the ministry’s plan to add 100 MW each week reflects earlier preparations in the sector.

“Our goal is to raise renewable energy’s share in the country’s electricity mix from the current 1.5 percent to 15 percent by the end of the 14th government’s term,” he said, adding that Iran’s vast solar potential gives the target strong backing.

Mohammadzadeh said peak electricity demand occurs during summer, when solar output is also at its highest, making renewables particularly valuable. He added that small- and large-scale solar projects are being supported through attractive contracts, including long-term guaranteed purchase agreements that allow investors to recover costs in about three years.

He also noted that in the short term, some equipment imports will be required to speed up construction of large-scale plants, with the Ministry of Industry, Mining and Trade providing support.

EF/