A Policy Analysis of Energy Imbalance in Tehran Province with Emphasis on Renewable Energy Development

Subject Areas : Bi-quarterly Journal of development economics and planning

Marjan Badri ^{1 *}

1 - PhD student in Environmental Planning, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

Received: 2025-07-19 Accepted : 2025-11-25 Published : 2025-02-11

Keywords: Energy imbalance, renewable energy, energy justice, governance, Tehran Province, policy analysis,

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This study examines the structural causes, challenges, and opportunities related to energy imbalance in Tehran Province, focusing on the role of renewable energy development. Using a descriptive-analytical method based on official data from the Ministry of Energy, Tavanir, and the Statistical Center of Iran, the study identifies a persistent and widening gap between energy supply and demand. The findings reveal that beyond technical issues, the root causes of this imbalance lie in poor multi-level governance, institutional fragmentation, and spatial inequality in energy access. The study also highlights the limited effectiveness of demand-side management policies, such as the "Bargh Omid" program and smart metering, due to inadequate implementation and lack of public engagement. Despite the region’s high potential for solar energy, renewable energy development has been minimal, primarily due to policy instability, bureaucratic obstacles, and weak private sector incentives. The analysis concludes that achieving energy sustainability and equity in Tehran requires an integrated, participatory policy framework supported by regional planning, targeted subsidies, and institutional coordination. The study offers practical policy recommendations to support the transition toward a more sustainable and just energy system in Iran’s most populous province

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