Iran’s steel production reached nearly 15 million tons in the first half of the current Iranian calendar year, which began on March 21, marking a 3.2% increase from the same period last year, the Iranian Steel Producers Association (ISPA) said on Monday.The six-month growth contrasts with a 4.8% decline reported in the first quarter, suggesting improved performance across the industry despite persistent power shortages, IRNA reported.According to ISPA, the rebound likely reflects better planning by steelmakers to secure electricity through purchases of “green” and open-market power as well as self-supplied power plants.In Iran, some major industrial producers such as steelmakers have started purchasing electricity from “green” and open-market sources — renewable energy sources — or generating it through their own power plants to offset shortages from the national grid.Producers had expected severe power restrictions this year, but unexpected 90% electricity cuts in May and June forced them to adapt quickly, the report said.Among steel chain products, rebar and iron ore concentrate saw the highest growth, attributed to their lower power consumption. The surge in iron ore concentrate exports also supported higher output.In contrast, production of various steel sheets declined due to weak market demand and continued imports. Although imports of steel sheets have trended downward, the association said their volume remains unjustified given the country’s significant unused domestic capacity. (ICE TEHERAN)

Fonte notizia: IRAN DAILY