Tehran: Iran ranks among the world's top five countries in power plant technology, with a significant share of domestically manufactured power equipment exported to international markets, Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi has said. Speaking at the inauguration of the 72-megawatt Esfarayen power plant in North Khorasan Province on Thursday, Aliabadi said Iran has achieved a prominent position in power generation technology and exports much of its locally produced equipment to various countries.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Aliabadi stated that Iran is entering a new era and has emerged as a global power. He added that the administration of President Masoud Pezeshkian is working to serve the public. The future belongs to energy, Aliabadi said, stressing the need to pursue electricity industry development seriously.

The minister also highlighted progress in renewable energy, noting that Iran has launched a sustainable drive toward developing new energy sources and has prioritized investment in solar power plants. He emphasized, however, that increasing generation capacity must be accompanied by advances in technology.

Aliabadi said Iran holds a strong position in electricity industry investment and noted that the country's pace of development in the sector remains significant.