Ghodratollah Nasiri, NPC’s Director of Research, Technology, and
Domestic Manufacturing, emphasized that the ongoing reconstruction of
facilities affected by recent infrastructure strikes must serve as a catalyst
for technological modernization rather than a mere return to baseline
operations.
Rebuilding as a Technological Springboard
Nasiri stated that post-reconstruction efforts are being aligned with
Industry 4.0 and 5.0 standards, focusing on smart manufacturing, advanced
process controls, and enhanced operational resilience.
"The primary mandate remains the safe, controlled restart of
affected units under strict HSE guidelines. However, rebuilding must mark a
generational shift toward sustainable, smart operations—integrating artificial
intelligence, data analytics, and predictive maintenance to minimize unplanned
downtime." — Ghodratollah Nasiri, Director of Research & Technology
at NPC
Strategic Pillars of the 7-Year Localization Plan
Nasiri outlined key operational tracks designed to transition the
domestic industry from basic component duplication to full intellectual
property and technical knowledge localization:
- 100%
Equipment Autonomy: Achieving full domestic manufacturing
capacity for specialized petrochemical equipment, instrumentation, and
replacement components within five to seven years.
- Knowledge-Based
Integration: Expanding partnerships with domestic tech
firms, universities, and academic institutes via long-term,
transfer-of-technology contracts.
- Financial
Mechanisms: Utilizing specialized credit facilities
under Article 28 of the Knowledge-Based Production Act in partnership with
the Oil Industry Research and Technology Fund to finance high-tech
projects.
- Smart
Value-Chain Systems: Deploying intelligent platforms to identify
technological gaps, streamline industry demand, and directly match
operational needs with domestic manufacturing capabilities.
AI Integration and Digital Transformation
According to Nasiri, NPC’s R&D strategy falls directly under the
Petroleum Ministry’s digital transformation framework.
By leveraging big data analytics, AI-driven machinery health
monitoring, and standardized data governance systems, the sector aims to boost
overall plant reliability, optimize energy inputs, and secure domestic supply
chains against external disruptions.