TEHRAN, July 7 (UPI) -- Iranians must cut energy consumption by more than 30 percent of their current levels by 2015, the supreme leader of Iran said in a decree.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's top cleric, said following consultations with the Expediency Council, his top advisory body, that the country is to reform consumption patterns.
"The government, especially state companies and institutions, should serve as pioneers in promoting the efficient use of resources, especially energy consumption," the semiofficial Fars News Agency quoted the measure as stating.
The decree includes price reforms "or other policies" meant to cut energy consumption by 30 percent of their current level by 2015 and half of the current level by 2020.
Furthermore, the plan calls for national standards outlining the production and import of energy-efficient machinery, increased production at power plans and a move toward renewable energy.
The plan also calls for unspecified reforms in the public transportation system, with a special focus on the subway system.
Iran has restrictions in place to curb gasoline production. The energy-rich country is facing stiff sanctions imposed by the United States and the United Nations as punishment for a controversial nuclear program.
Khamenei added that Iranians must do more to use water resources more efficiently and prevent environmental contamination.
