Iran possesses highly developed basic infrastructure, particularly compared to regional averages. The electrical grid provides nearly 100% of the population with power, largely generated by natural gas-fired plants, alongside hydroelectric dams and the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
Water infrastructure is extensive but currently faces existential threats from prolonged droughts, over-extraction of aquifers, and climate change, making water scarcity a critical national issue.
Telecommunications are widespread. The country has a very high mobile penetration rate, with operators like MCI and Irancell providing 4G and growing 5G coverage. Internet access is ubiquitous, though the government heavily censors and restricts access to many global platforms, leading to the widespread use of VPNs among the population. A domestic 'National Information Network' operates alongside the global internet.
