Iran has ordered cement and steel factories nationwide to halt or significantly reduce production for 15 days starting May 15 to manage soaring electricity demand, local media reported.
According to Tejarat News, the Interior Ministry instructed regional power companies to immediately cut electricity supply to major industrial consumers. Factories must reduce power usage to just 10pct of normal levels during this period.
Two steelmakers stated they may have to suspend operations entirely.
The curbs come amid surging household electricity use due to record-high temperatures, which have led millions to switch on air conditioning earlier than usual.
Industries Minister Mohammad Atabak criticized the move, saying it would severely damage Iran’s cement, steel, and aluminum sectors.
Officials say power availability is expected to improve by mid-June once repairs to power plants are completed.