Energy Sector Diversification in Iran: Evolving Strategies and Interests in the Electricity Sector

Shabnam Mirsaeedi-Farahani analyzes Iran's interests in diversifying its energy sector, specifically electricity generation and consumption, between 1990 and 2011. She examines the policy discussions in the Iranian Parliament as well as policy development and implementation with respect to the electricity sector. One of the geopolitically crucial areas for both Iran's domestic development as well as its international influence has been its energy sector. The author assesses international policy pressures and domestic interests to evaluate the interplay of interests, actors, and strategies. While increasing domestic generation capacity, Iran has been able to further its regional interests and influences as well as to build a backbone for its industrialization endeavors.