A new era of energy abundance is within reach through modernisation

It’s an exciting time to be working in the global energy industry. By investing in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), precision control systems, and other advanced technologies, energy producers are not only reinforcing existing foundations but also preparing for a new era of abundance.

Too often, discussions about the energy industry focus largely on challenges. While these conversations are both valid and necessary, helping us, as a sector, to address these challenges with innovative solutions, and also tracking global macroeconomic indicators, they can overshadow another crucial narrative: opportunity.

By investing in technology and workforce development for long-term sustainability, the energy sector can soften the impact of market volatility on the investment cycle. More significantly, it can fast-track progress towards net-zero targets while delivering much-needed energy security.

With the right investment in technology, people and processes, today’s average oil and gas producer has the potential to boost productivity by up to 150%. That figure alone is compelling as it addresses the key concern: profitability.

But this is just the beginning. Industry innovators are leveraging technology to address the sector’s other most pressing challenges. A few examples include:

• The growing use of robotics in inspection and operation, which reduces downtime and enhances safety.
• LNG producers achieving higher efficiency through automated FPSO units with advanced power control.
• The adoption of automated, intelligent systems and services throughout the value chain, helping mitigate labour shortage.
• Collaborative system development based on common standards, such as the Open Process Automation Forum (OPAF), improving efficiency at scale, worldwide.
  
  

Capital expenditure (CAPEX) directed towards autonomous operations in the energy sector is yielding quick returns. When implemented effectively, it can reduce production cycle times by 30% to 40%, driving increased efficiency, cost savings, and increased batch throughput.

Further, investments in decarbonisation technologies do more than simply address today’s challenges. Market leaders investing in these technologies are simultaneously cutting emissions, increasing profitability, and cultivating a skilled, digital-native workforce for the future.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts that even in a net-zero emissions scenario, the world will still require 24 million barrels of oil a day. The leaders and innovators of today are building the oil and gas sector that is resilient and competitive in that future landscape.

Across the energy sector worldwide, advanced automation and precision-control technologies are enabling improved efficiencies and safety by cutting emissions. These benefits are magnified when supported with intelligent services and digital solutions that drive efficiencies across the value chain.

This integrated approach has proven successful in carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects. With a significant rise in CCS adoption, these initiatives are poised to create their own economy. This is encouraged by dedicated business models, and an economic structure built on the expanding international Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

Equally important is innovation’s role in delivering long-term energy security — a top priority for the public and policy makers. Safety today does not guarantee security tomorrow. Production and process environments are dynamic and constantly changing.

Operators must be able to adapt to unseen future threats. That’s why the energy sector requires more than just secure-by-design technologies. It needs long-term technology partnerships that develop cyber-strategies capable of protecting operations against evolving threats.

Such partnerships are also crucial in closing the energy-sector skills gap. With formal training and long-term cooperation, technology partners can help the sector train tomorrow’s vigilant, agile and digital-first workforce.

Harnessing technology to power a new energy economy is vital to serve billions of citizens who depend on us. We must innovate, for the sake of their present and future wellbeing.
I look forward to working with you to meet that challenge, together.

To find out more visit www.rockwellautomation.com or visit Rockwell at Gastech 2025 at booth E140.