In The Spotlight
Rystad predicts energy sector volatility in 2025. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Trends shaping the energy sector in 2025
The coming year looks set to bring more volatility, geopolitical tension and policy evolutions in terms of the energy scene, according to new research from Rystad Energy, which has highlighted significant trends that will shape the energy world in 2025
The US-China dynamic, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine will take centre stage, while rising instability across the Global South, and the transformative impact of AI will also shape the global order. A global trade war sparked by US tariffs, and China economic slowdown are potential clouds on the horizon.
In terms of global upstream investments, Rystad forecasts a decline of 2% in 2025, with deepwater developments in Surname, Mexico and Turkiye and offshore shelf investments in Suriname Indonesia, Qatar and Russia offset by a decline in shale/tight oil investments. Despite Donald Trump’s “drill baby drill” rhetoric, US operators are less likely than ever to spend more on drilling in the face of an oversupplied market. A forecast growth in both OPEC+ and non-OPEC+ supply is set to put a downward pressure on oil prices.
“Leading into 2025, the OPEC+ balancing act will make or break oil prices, seeking to manage its market share expectations alongside non-OPEC+ growth and slowing demand,” said Aditya Saraswat, senior vice president, Upstream Research at Rystad.
Rystad also highlights ongoing supply chain issues, with geopolitical tensions and increased protectionism likely to impact the global supply chain supporting the energy transition. Within offshore oil and gas, bottlenecks around floating production, storage and offloading vessels (FPSOs), subsea kits, drilling rigs and other vessels will continue to inflate and delay capital projects. Overall, increased divestments, mergers and acquisitions are likely across the energy supply chain.
Global power demand is entering a period of accelerated growth, fuelled by industrial decarbonisation efforts, the rise of EVs and the rapid expansion of data centres, with global electricity demand from data centres set to more than double by the end of the decade.
Low carbon energy markets are set to grow, boosted by climate plans emerging from the COP29 summit.
“However, However, 2025 could be another reality check for renewables and cleantech, with shifting policies favouring fossil fuels, green energy stocks under pressure, and uncertainty about funding and subsidies,” commented Artem Abramov, head of Clean Tech Research at Rystad Energy.
Nevertheless Solar PV is set to grow by around 600TWh in 2025, and the CCUS market is poised for rapid growth, thanks to policy support, despite infrastructure hurdles.
The hydrogen sector is however facing a reality check with challenges and cancellations on the cards.
“We expect a more pragmatic approach in the clean hydrogen sector, as the cost premium for renewable hydrogen and derivatives remains largely unchanged. Additionally, 2025 will see continued progress from China and India, as they advance their clean hydrogen and derivatives agendas,” said Minh Khoi Le, head of Hydrogen Research at Rystad.
“We’re moving from a time of energy scarcity to a time of energy abundance,” says Rystad Energy CEO and founder Jarand Rystad. “Capacity additions in both fossil fuels and renewables will outpace increases in demand next year. Similarly, in the face of an oversupplied oil market, OPEC+ may need to extend its production cuts far into 2025 to protect oil prices. The era of China driving oil consumption growth is over, with the country’s peak diesel in the rearview mirror, gasoline demand plateauing and coal consumption levelling off, as it is globally.
“This is echoed in the electricity market, with 90% of the power consumption growth in 2025 coming from renewables, while nuclear and gas share the remaining 10%. The intermittency of renewable power capacity has triggered record periods of negative prices, intensifying the need for reliable energy storage. As such, 2025 could be a breakout year for energy storage systems. Of the expected 1,350 terawatt hours (TWh) of growth in global power demand, consumption by data centres – primarily fuelled by AI – is likely to grow by 13% in 2025. This equals about 3% of total electricity consumption growth, similar to the growth from the 20 million new electric vehicles (EVs) expected.
“The new Trump administration will impact domestic and global energy priorities, including pulling any levers available to increase domestic crude production, even though the industry is unlikely to respond to this stimulus.
"However, President Trump might have more success in accelerating liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure investments, the results of which will not be felt for several years. These dynamics underscore the importance of careful navigation as the sector balances short-term challenges with long-term opportunities.”
The new company will focus initially on Egypt.
XRG and bp establish Arcius Energy
XRG, ADNOC’s energy investment company, and bp, have established a new regional gas platform, Arcius Energy, which will initially focus on gas development in Egypt
Arcius Energy will focus on natural gas growth to meet growing regional demand, while supporting Egyptian energy security and economic development. It includes the Shorouk concession (bp 10% interest), which contains the producing Zohr field; North Damietta concession (bp 100% interest), which contains the producing Atoll field; and North El Tabya, Bellatrix-Seti East and North El Fayrouz exploration concession agreements.
Arcius Energy is 51% owned by bp and 49% by XRG and will be headed by Naser Saif Al Yafei, from ADNOC, who was appointed as chief executive officer while Katerina Papalexandri, from bp, was appointed as chief financial officer.
Exciting new chapter
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, executive chairman of XRG said, “The formation of Arcius Energy marks an exciting new chapter in our long-standing partnership with bp, and fully aligns with XRG’s objectives to accelerate the transformation of energy systems and build a world-scale integrated gas and chemicals portfolio to meet rising global demand. This progressive partnership will unlock a lower-carbon transition fuel to build a future where smarter, cleaner and more affordable energy is accessible for Egypt and the world."
Murray Auchincloss, chief executive of bp, added, “Arcius Energy brings together the strengths of our two companies to create a dynamic new platform for international growth in natural gas in the region. Together, we can continue to build on bp’s 60 years of technical expertise and delivery of safe and efficient operations in Egypt – a hub for new opportunities to build out a highly competitive gas portfolio in the region.”
bp, along with its partners, currently produces around 70% of Egypt’s gas through its gas development projects in the West and East Nile Delta.
The World Future Energy Summit 2025 will continue to build the blueprint for a sustainable future. (Image source: WFES)
Masdar-hosted World Future Energy Summit to champion regional energy growth
The Middle East’s role as a new global fuels hub, the potential impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in energy industry transformation, and potential pathways to a sustainable and resilient future are a trio of critical issues to be explored when the World Future Energy Summit returns to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 14-16 January as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 (ADSW)
Hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s World Future Energy Summit – now globally recognised as the world’s premier business event focused on future energy and sustainability – will bring together pioneering energy sector minds, policy and decision-makers, and industry innovators to demonstrate, discuss and debate cutting-edge solutions and trends shaping a sustainable and resilient energy future.
The summit will explore broader regional trends, bringing together the global players who can help the UAE achieve its goal of increasing the proportion of clean energy in the country’s overall mix from its current level of 27.83% to 32% by 2030.
“Masdar’s pioneering and innovative track record as the UAE’s clean energy powerhouse provides demonstrable evidence of the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals and the region’s growing prominence as a sustainability leader,” remarked Masdar CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi. “As a founding host and longstanding supporter of the World Future Energy Summit, we look forward to working with global partners, leaders and innovators to enable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing climate challenges.”
“The World Future Energy Summit is not just another industry event—it’s the heart of innovation and collaboration for building a sustainable energy future at a critical juncture,” added Leen AlSebai, general manager of RX Middle East and head of the World Future Energy Summit. “Energy demands and landscapes are constantly evolving, and our 2025 edition will draw on key trends and learnings from 2024 to continue propelling the industry forward. As we chart a sustainable future, we’ll place special focus on the Middle East’s role in the future of fuels and a carbon-neutral approach to economic growth.”
Summit host, Masdar will emphasise the need for cross-sector collaboration to achieve global energy transition goals in support of the tripling of global renewable capacity set out in the UAE Consensus. The 2025 edition will spotlight how countries across the region and internationally are capitalising on emerging clean energy opportunities. It will feature exclusive sessions exploring the evolving strategies of regional and international energy companies as they lead the charge towards decarbonisation, spurred by commitments made at COP28 in the UAE.
Bridging global and regional clean energy agendas
The summit’s agenda will reflect the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals and the region’s growing prominence as a sustainability leader. Dedicated conference streams will discuss landmark UAE projects and their contributions toward the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. The event will also highlight the Emirates’ rising stature in the global green hydrogen market, with recent reports ranking it first in hydrogen market readiness in the Middle East.
Faisal Rashid, senior director, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, will take part in a panel discussion on ‘Energy Efficiency: Balancing cost, incentives, and sustainability’, and sees the summit as a key enabler in promoting the UAE’s clean energy strategies. "My main objective is to leverage this international platform to promote energy efficiency and sustainability practices, share our expertise in energy strategy activation, and exchange knowledge with other professionals in the field,” said Rashid. “Participating in this event highlights our commitment to advancing the UAE's clean energy strategy and Net Zero targets. By collaborating with industry leaders and sharing best practices, we can strengthen our position as a key global hub for sustainable energy solutions, driving economic growth while promoting a healthier environment and a better quality of life for future generations."
The conference will also focus on AI and its role in transforming energy ecosystems, given the technology’s potential to optimise energy use, forecast demand, and enhance production efficiency as global consumption levels grow. In-depth discussions will probe how AI can be integrated into energy infrastructure without compromising sustainability efforts.
Elsewhere, participants will have access to six exhibition tracks covering solar energy, EcoWASTE, water, clean energy, smart cities, and climate & environment, while spotlighting regional leaders like Masdar.
Seven conference streams will support the exhibition, providing in-depth discussions on topics such as Pathways to 1.5°C, Water and Food Security, Sustainable Cities, Waste Management, and Green Finance. A dedicated focus on women in energy through initiatives like CLIX will also be under in the spotlight, as well as a deep dive into innovation and the role of entrepreneurs in tackling some of the most critical challenges of our time. The 2025 edition of the World Future Energy Summit will also explore the role of the Middle East in creating a new trade network for clean energy, with key initiatives across the region, featuring UAE-based companies such as ACWA Power, leading the way.
With more than 400 global companies and 350 industry speakers expected to take part, the World Future Energy Summit 2025 will serve as a nexus for investment, innovation and knowledge exchange across industries and is not one to be missed.
Visit the website to learn more by clicking here and register for the conference by clicking here
Liv A. Hovem from DNV’s Executive Committee hands the Site Feasibility Certificate to Hanan Balalaa, ADNOC senior vice president for New Energies. (Image source: DNV)
DNV certifies ADNOC site for CO2 storage
DNV has certified the feasibility of ADNOC’s West Aquifer CO2 storage site in the UAE, the first site it has certified in the Middle East
It covers the initial subsurface assessments of the Simsima and UAE saline reservoirs, and signifies that the site is equipped for safe and effective CO2 storage.
The West Aquifer project is part of ADNOC’s efforts to scale up CCS deployment, which are central to its decarbonisation strategy. ADNOC is seeking to expand CCS capacity to 10 mn tonnes per annum by 2030 with the aim of reducing industrial CO2 emissions, in line with the UAE’s net zero goals.
Santiago Blanco, executive vice rresident & regional director Southern Europe, Middle East, Latin America and Africa, Energy Systems at DNV, commented, “Certifying the West Aquifer CO2 storage site is an important milestone, not just for ADNOC but for the region’s commitment to addressing climate challenges. This project serves as a tangible step toward meeting the UAE’s Net Zero goals and highlights the vital role that CCS will play in shaping a sustainable energy future.”
Hanan Balalaa, ADNOC senior vice president for New Energies, said: “The certification of ADNOC’s West Aquifer site by DNV builds on our track record of successful deployment of carbon capture across Abu Dhabi and our global leadership in this critical decarbonisation solution. We will continue to work with our partners and customers to develop and scale up this technology.”
Michael Monica demonstrating the Iso-Smart remote monitoring solution. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)
GPT Industries introduces Iso-Smart solution to Middle East market
Oil Review Middle East caught up with Michael Monica, director sales, marketing and customer care, GPT Industries at ADIPEC, where the company was showcasing its Iso-Smart remote monitoring solution for pipelines
Iso-Smart, which GPT is currently introducing to the Middle East, is an all-in-one solution for checking Cathodic Protection (on and instant off potentials), Isolation, Bond currents, AC vs. DC on the line, and more from remote locations. The device can be mounted on the pole at any current test station along a pipeline, and incorporates True RMS technology to provide reliable real-time data, helping pipeline owners make informed decisions, address any issues or anomalies before they become critical and comply with pipeline integrity regulations. Combining GPT Industries’ decades of corrosion prevention expertise with the latest remote monitoring technology, it sets a new standard for a versatile, user-friendly remote asset integrity monitoring.
Unique characteristics
“The unique characteristic of this device it that it doesn’t require someone to take measurements physically at the test station, this device will do it remotely,” underlines Monica. “It can gather data and provide instant readings on demand, so the user can see what the condition of their pipeline is anywhere where there's an electrical lead or test station.”
Monica explains that as such, it not only provides significant savings in time and cost but in particular addresses the critical issue of safety, as it eliminates the need for physical inspections which may require crossing property lines or accessing remote or inaccessible locations, particularly valuable in the vast and often harsh terrains of the Middle East.
“The original remote monitors were used on rectifiers, where they can turn the rectifier on and off. This device goes to the next level; you can turn the unit on and off remotely, and actually test the current on your pipeline on demand. If you've got critical bonds on the pipeline, you can monitor the critical bonds. You can also directly measure current on the pipeline, across bonds or isolation joints as opposed to calculating prone potentials across a shunt. So it's a really nice diagnostic tool to determine that you have adequate protection against corrosion.”
He adds that the other unique thing about the device is that it addresses the issue of AC interference on the pipeline, a significant concern for the industry today.
“If pipelines are running through a corridor where you've got overhead power lines, those overhead power lines can put AC current onto the pipeline, and depending upon the amount or the density of the AC current, if it reaches a certain threshold or level, it will significantly increase the potential for corrosion. This device can tell you what your AC density is, so you can put mitigation measures in place to make sure that that you don't have a critical amount on your pipeline.”
Middle East interest
While Iso-Smart is only now being introduced to the Middle East, it has already attracted a lot of interest from operators in the region, given that pipeline integrity and corrosion protection are key concerns.
“Operators are cathodically protecting their pipelines, but they want to be able to determine the status of the current on their pipelines and identify where they have issues with AC current, because it adversely affects their DC current.”
Turning to future plans, Monica says that the company is developing a next-gen compact version of the Iso-Smart that will be able to be fixed inside the test station, thus addressing any issues with potential tampering.
https://oilreviewmiddleeast.com/technical-focus/gpt-industries-launches-iso-smart-for-monitoring
Nicholas Villemain, global capital projects manager, Fluid Connectors Group, Parker Hannifin. (Image source: Parker Hannifin)
Powering the future: Parker's vision for the Middle East's energy transition
The bustling ADIPEC exhibition in the UAE was the perfect backdrop for Nicolas Villemain, global capital projects manager, Fluid Connectors Group, Parker Hannifin to share the company's ambitious plans for the Middle East market. As a global leader in motion and control technologies, Parker is positioning itself at the forefront of the region's energy transition.
"ADIPEC is a really important show for us," Villemain explained. "It's a great place to meet our current distributors and look for new opportunities to grow. We still have room to find new channels and partners to expand our reach." And with the Middle East's booming market, there is no shortage of potential.
A key area of focus for Parker is supporting the region's shift towards cleaner energy sources. "We are focused on helping our current oil and gas companies grow, do more carbon capture, and study hydrogen," said Villeman. The company's extensive, almost US$20bn portfolio of products, puts them in a unique position to tackle these challenges.
Middle East growth
Villemain highlighted Parker's expertise in developing solutions for harsher environments and higher pressures - critical considerations as the industry navigates new frontiers. "We have developed an expertise on high pressure and corrosion-resistant alloys. There's also work we can do with our customers to make systems safer and reduce emissions, we have great solutions for that."
To deliver these innovations, Parker relies on its strong global network and local partnerships. "We come with expertise from around the world, and we like to work closely with end users and EPCs to provide technical expertise and share our experience," Villemain explained. "Companies like ADNOC and ARAMCO benefit from our knowledge and added value solutions to achieve their goals."
Parker is keen to emphasise its strategy for fostering innovation within the company. "This is really at the heart of our strategy," Villemain responded. "We're showcasing solutions like valves, fittings and hoses that can handle hydrogen, high pressures and harsh medias, as well as filtration systems for electrolyzers. It's amazing to see the progress we've made in just the last 20 years."
The Middle East's growth prospects have Parker equally enthused. "Saudi Arabia is a major key market for us globally," Villemain stated. "And in the UAE, the transformation over the past 25 years has been incredible. There are still so many exciting projects, like the Helium gas hub, that we're eager to be a part of."
To capitalise on these opportunities, Parker has made the strategic decision to exhibit directly at ADIPEC, rather than relying solely on local partners. "We realised this is the biggest show in the world for oil and gas, where people speak about the energy transition journey," he explained. "It's where we invest, with many applications in our clean tech segment, including hydrogen, carbon capture, and digitalisation."
This direct presence also allows Parker to strengthen its regional distribution network. "We continue to expand our partnerships in the UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia," he added. "It's important for us to get questions from people all over the world, and be identified as a global player in this industry."
As the Middle East accelerates its shift towards a more sustainable energy future, Parker is poised to play a pivotal role. With its innovative technologies, global expertise, and local partnerships, the company is well-equipped to power the region's transition.
Hani El Tannir, CEO, Group Industrial, Al Masaood. (Image source: Al Masaood)
Al Masaood expands its offering of cutting-edge sustainable solutions
The oil and gas sector will continue to be an important mainstay of UAE-based conglomerate Al Masaood, according to Group Industrial CEO Hani El Tannir
Speaking to Oil Review Middle East, El Tannir said, “Our response to the requirements of the energy sector in general, including end users and their EPCs, is still very much centre stage – but we’re evolving with the industry.
“We are doing a lot more in terms of value addition locally, managing in detail the process with the client on the one hand and the supplier on the other. Value addition is the name of the game for us,” he said.
The Group’s products and services are evolving and diversifying as well, with a stronger focus on services and tailored solutions in terms of engineering, manufacturing and integration, alongside traditional activities such as Rotary Equipment, filtration equipment and workshop equipment supply. Al Masaood’s Projects and Engineering Services (PESD) division offers comprehensive solutions across sectors including asset integrity management (a critical need in the UAE where 80% of oil and gas and power equipment is more than 30 years old), specialised site services and advanced engineering.
Furthermore, through its strategic alliances with global brands, Al Masaood PESD is able to deliver complete turnkey DBOOM (Design, Build, Own, Operate, Maintain) packages for compressors, allowing the integration of compressors and sustainable technologies across diverse energy applications.
El Tannir stressed the company’s focus on environment-friendly products and recycling and the importance of good materials management, adding that, while a large proportion of materials still comes from abroad, the focus on local manufacture means better control of the supply chain, as well as preparing the base for future generations to join the workforce.
PESD has ongoing collaborations with 12 major brands, including KSB, Chart, Man Energy Solutions, QuartzElec, and Hengst, all contributing innovations aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability.
Cutting-edge advancements
At ADIPEC this year, Al Masaood’s PESD division anchored the Group’s presence, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in areas such as LNG, hydrogen and carbon capture, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation and aligning with the country’s net zero by 2050 pledge. They include modular LNG liquefaction and storage solutions, developed in collaboration with Chart Industries, and compact and energy-dense liquid hydrogen storage solutions, offered through its collaboration with Chart and Howden, which eliminate the need for high-pressure cylinders and prioritise safety and efficiency. While advanced carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technologies are offered through its partner MAN Energy Solutions, enabling companies to reduce their CO2 emissions.
Also, within ADIPEC, Al Masaood showcased its specialist manufacturing for the Energy Sector, and introduced its regional agreement with NIDEC Power, covering motors and alternators. Al Masaood Motor Tech Services is already executing works for various end users and EPCs in the region.
In 2025, Al Masaood plans to expand its innovative and value-added services for the regional market.
El Tannir added, “We will continue to be a strong pillar for the energy market, as we know the future demands and requirements. The energy sector is critical, technology innovations and sustainability are needed, and we are the company to meet this need. To this end, we are joining hands with many more companies to bring such solutions to the local market.”
The new company will focus initially on Egypt.
XRG and bp establish Arcius Energy
XRG, ADNOC’s energy investment company, and bp, have established a new regional gas platform, Arcius Energy, which will initially focus on gas development in Egypt
Arcius Energy will focus on natural gas growth to meet growing regional demand, while supporting Egyptian energy security and economic development. It includes the Shorouk concession (bp 10% interest), which contains the producing Zohr field; North Damietta concession (bp 100% interest), which contains the producing Atoll field; and North El Tabya, Bellatrix-Seti East and North El Fayrouz exploration concession agreements.
Arcius Energy is 51% owned by bp and 49% by XRG and will be headed by Naser Saif Al Yafei, from ADNOC, who was appointed as chief executive officer while Katerina Papalexandri, from bp, was appointed as chief financial officer.
Exciting new chapter
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, executive chairman of XRG said, “The formation of Arcius Energy marks an exciting new chapter in our long-standing partnership with bp, and fully aligns with XRG’s objectives to accelerate the transformation of energy systems and build a world-scale integrated gas and chemicals portfolio to meet rising global demand. This progressive partnership will unlock a lower-carbon transition fuel to build a future where smarter, cleaner and more affordable energy is accessible for Egypt and the world."
Murray Auchincloss, chief executive of bp, added, “Arcius Energy brings together the strengths of our two companies to create a dynamic new platform for international growth in natural gas in the region. Together, we can continue to build on bp’s 60 years of technical expertise and delivery of safe and efficient operations in Egypt – a hub for new opportunities to build out a highly competitive gas portfolio in the region.”
bp, along with its partners, currently produces around 70% of Egypt’s gas through its gas development projects in the West and East Nile Delta.
QatarEnergy has expanded its stakes in offshore Namibia blocks. (Image source: QatarEnergy)
The A1-96/3 well is located around 35 km from the Wafa field. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Rystad predicts energy sector volatility in 2025. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Trends shaping the energy sector in 2025
The coming year looks set to bring more volatility, geopolitical tension and policy evolutions in terms of the energy scene, according to new research from Rystad Energy, which has highlighted significant trends that will shape the energy world in 2025
The US-China dynamic, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine will take centre stage, while rising instability across the Global South, and the transformative impact of AI will also shape the global order. A global trade war sparked by US tariffs, and China economic slowdown are potential clouds on the horizon.
In terms of global upstream investments, Rystad forecasts a decline of 2% in 2025, with deepwater developments in Surname, Mexico and Turkiye and offshore shelf investments in Suriname Indonesia, Qatar and Russia offset by a decline in shale/tight oil investments. Despite Donald Trump’s “drill baby drill” rhetoric, US operators are less likely than ever to spend more on drilling in the face of an oversupplied market. A forecast growth in both OPEC+ and non-OPEC+ supply is set to put a downward pressure on oil prices.
“Leading into 2025, the OPEC+ balancing act will make or break oil prices, seeking to manage its market share expectations alongside non-OPEC+ growth and slowing demand,” said Aditya Saraswat, senior vice president, Upstream Research at Rystad.
Rystad also highlights ongoing supply chain issues, with geopolitical tensions and increased protectionism likely to impact the global supply chain supporting the energy transition. Within offshore oil and gas, bottlenecks around floating production, storage and offloading vessels (FPSOs), subsea kits, drilling rigs and other vessels will continue to inflate and delay capital projects. Overall, increased divestments, mergers and acquisitions are likely across the energy supply chain.
Global power demand is entering a period of accelerated growth, fuelled by industrial decarbonisation efforts, the rise of EVs and the rapid expansion of data centres, with global electricity demand from data centres set to more than double by the end of the decade.
Low carbon energy markets are set to grow, boosted by climate plans emerging from the COP29 summit.
“However, However, 2025 could be another reality check for renewables and cleantech, with shifting policies favouring fossil fuels, green energy stocks under pressure, and uncertainty about funding and subsidies,” commented Artem Abramov, head of Clean Tech Research at Rystad Energy.
Nevertheless Solar PV is set to grow by around 600TWh in 2025, and the CCUS market is poised for rapid growth, thanks to policy support, despite infrastructure hurdles.
The hydrogen sector is however facing a reality check with challenges and cancellations on the cards.
“We expect a more pragmatic approach in the clean hydrogen sector, as the cost premium for renewable hydrogen and derivatives remains largely unchanged. Additionally, 2025 will see continued progress from China and India, as they advance their clean hydrogen and derivatives agendas,” said Minh Khoi Le, head of Hydrogen Research at Rystad.
“We’re moving from a time of energy scarcity to a time of energy abundance,” says Rystad Energy CEO and founder Jarand Rystad. “Capacity additions in both fossil fuels and renewables will outpace increases in demand next year. Similarly, in the face of an oversupplied oil market, OPEC+ may need to extend its production cuts far into 2025 to protect oil prices. The era of China driving oil consumption growth is over, with the country’s peak diesel in the rearview mirror, gasoline demand plateauing and coal consumption levelling off, as it is globally.
“This is echoed in the electricity market, with 90% of the power consumption growth in 2025 coming from renewables, while nuclear and gas share the remaining 10%. The intermittency of renewable power capacity has triggered record periods of negative prices, intensifying the need for reliable energy storage. As such, 2025 could be a breakout year for energy storage systems. Of the expected 1,350 terawatt hours (TWh) of growth in global power demand, consumption by data centres – primarily fuelled by AI – is likely to grow by 13% in 2025. This equals about 3% of total electricity consumption growth, similar to the growth from the 20 million new electric vehicles (EVs) expected.
“The new Trump administration will impact domestic and global energy priorities, including pulling any levers available to increase domestic crude production, even though the industry is unlikely to respond to this stimulus.
"However, President Trump might have more success in accelerating liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure investments, the results of which will not be felt for several years. These dynamics underscore the importance of careful navigation as the sector balances short-term challenges with long-term opportunities.”
The service centre will provide 24-hour engineering services for pumps and rotating equipment. (Image source: Sulzer)
The phase out of cuts shift from 12 months to 18 months. (Image source: Rystad Energy)
This project includes the construction of a 30,000-metric-ton ethylene storage facilities and associated utility infrastructure. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Samsung E&A awarded Qatar contract
SAMSUNG E&A has been awarded a contract with Ras Laffan Petrochemicals (RLP) for the Qatar RLP Ethylene Storage Plant, to be executed as a joint venture with CTCI of Taiwan
The total contract amount of the project is around US$418mn, with SAMSUNG E&A's share being about US$215mn, and the contract period is estimated to be 34 months. The client, Ras Laffan Petrochemicals, is a joint venture between Qatar Energy, Qatar's state-run energy company, and a subsidiary of Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC.
This project includes the construction of a 30,000-metric-ton ethylene storage facilities and associated utility infrastructure at an industrial complex in Ras Laffan, 80 km north of Doha, Qatar's capital. It is located within the same complex as the RLP ethylene project awarded to SAMSUNG E&A and CTCI in 2023 and is currently under execution. Its purpose is to store ethylene during the plant's maintenance and repair periods, ensuring availability in case of an emergency, while allowing flexible handling of ethylene from both upstream and dowonstream suppliers. SAMSUNG E&A is responsible for the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of key equipment, including 30,000 metric ton storage tanks, compressors, and pumps.
The joint venture plans to deliver exceptional schedule management for the client by applying innovative strategies in project execution. This includes a pioneering approach to procurement, with key equipment and materials being purchased before the engineering process is finalised.
Hong Namkoong, president and CEO of SAMSUNG E&A said, “As we have secured a linked order with Ras Laffan Petrochemicals, we will successfully carry out the project based on our performance experience and innovation strategy and strengthen our position in the Qatari market.”
Michael Yang, chairman of CTCI, said, “We appreciate Ras Laffan Petrochemicals’ continued trust in offering this opportunity to our team. We will continue to deliver high-quality engineering and safety management to ensure the project is completed on time and up to standard.”
The new process will improve efficiency and reduce carbon footprint. (Image source: Honeywell)
The programme will optimise asset lifecycle, enhance machinery performance and improve overall reliability. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
AR360 modules will be developed as Petrel subsurface software plug-ins to create a suite of powerful and specialised tools. (Image source: AIQ)s
AIQ and SLB partner on subsurface software
Abu-Dhabi based technology company AIQ, has partnered with SLB to integrate its Advanced Reservoir 360 (AR360) solution with SLB’s Petrel software
AR360 uses AI to visualise reservoirs and optimise development, reducing planning time while increasing well life and recovery rates by ensuring the right balance between drilling new wells, boosting performance of existing wells, and optimising injection and production volumes.
Petrel software offers a comprehensive suite of physics- and AI-based technologies in an integrated, model-centric architecture to deliver critical insights into the subsurface. It facilitates more efficient well planning, field development, and optimisation for oil and gas reserves, as well as solutions supporting the energy transition, including CCUS and geothermal.
While traditional forecasting technologies require working across multiple software platforms and data sets, which can be time-consuming, combined with Petrel software, AR360 enhances workflows with an end-to-end approach to reservoir development and utilises AI to save time and enable better and more proactive decision-making. AR360 modules will be developed as Petrel software plug-ins, utilising the SLB Ocean software development framework to create a suite of powerful and specialised tools.
ADNOC has deployed AR360 on more than 30 reservoirs across its upstream operations, following the solution’s successful initial deployment in early 2024 on two ADNOC reservoirs at Bab and Umm Shaif fields.
Magzhan Kenesbai, acting managing director of AIQ commented, “Petrel software is globally reputed, and incorporating AR360 into its capabilities will deliver an improvement of asset reservoir understanding through data integration. This partnership reinforces the emergence of AIQ as a developing global AI supplier-of-choice for the energy sector. We are driving greater efficiencies in upstream operations and beyond, and partnering with leading technology providers in our pursuit of excellence.”
The new solution extends SLB's autonomous drilling capabilities. (Image source: SLB)
The new services can help operators benefit from improved well insights, extended asset life, and reduced total cost of operations. (Image source: Halliburton)
The webinar highlighted SAFEEN Green - a revolutionary new USV. (Image source: AD Ports Group)
SAFEEN Group webinar addresses future of offshore operations
Oil Review Middle East hosted a very well-attended webinar on 20 November on the future of offshore operations, in association with SAFEEN Group, part of AD Ports Group
The webinar explored the latest trends and challenges in the rapidly evolving world of offshore operations, focusing on groundbreaking innovations that are driving sustainable and efficient practices. In particular, it highlighted SAFEEN Green – a revolutionary unmanned surface vessel (USV), setting new benchmarks for sustainable and efficient maritime operations.
Erik Tonne, MD and Head of Market Analysis at Clarksons, gave an overview of the offshore market, highlighting that current oil price levels are supportive for offshore developments, and global offshore capex is increasing strongly. The Middle East region will see significant capex increase over the coming years, with the need for rigs and vessels likely to remain high. Offshore wind is also seeing increased spending. Global rig activity is growing, while the subsea EPC backlog has never been higher, with regional EPC contracts seeing very high activity. Tonne forecast that demand for subsea vessels and other support vessels will continue to increase.
Tareq Abdulla Al Marzooqi, CEO SAFEEN Subsea, AD Ports Group, introduced SAFEEN Subsea, a joint venture with NMDC, which offers reliable and innovative survey, subsea and offshore solutions to support major offshore and EPC projects across the region. He highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, internationalisation and local content, and how it is a hub for innovations and new ideas, taking conceptual designs and converting them to commercial projects. A key project is SAFEEN Green, which offers an optimised inspection and survey solution.
Tareq Al Marzooqi and Ronald J Kraft, CTO, Sovereign Global Solutions ME and RC Dock Engineering BV. outlined the benefits and capabilities of SAFEEN Green as compared with commercial vessels, in terms of safety, efficiency, profitability and sustainability. It is 30-40% more efficient through the use of advanced technologies, provides a safer working environment given it is operated 24/7 remotely from a control centre, and offers swappable payload capacity. Vessels are containerised and can be transported easily to other regions. In terms of fuel consumption, the vessel is environment-friendly and highly competitive, reducing emissions by 90% compared with conventional vessels, with the ability to operate on 100% biofuel.
As for future plans, SAFEEN Green 2.0 is under development, which will be capable of carrying two inspection work-class ROVs simultaneously. A priority will be to collect data to create functional AI models for vessels and operations, with the first agent-controlled payload systems in prospect by around 2027.
To view the webinar, go to https://alaincharles.zoom.us/rec/share/mNHjZhAhQzn1sPzmFWZCgrq7_SckfLRcSb4w81I7aVlokO9sgHM_zVeOqgN3DgJS.bO4OIRqNeFP09SPu?startTime=1732095689000
The webinar explored how AI surveillance applications can enhance operational efficiency and improve standards in onshore and offshore operations. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The webinar covered the latest advancements in industrial analytics tools. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The project will support Aramco's emissions reduction objectives. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Aramco progresses carbon capture hub
Aramco is significantly advancing its net-zero ambitions with the signing of a shareholders’ agreement with Linde and SLB to progress the development of a Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) hub at Jubail, set to become one of the largest globally
Under the terms of the shareholders’ agreement Aramco will take a 60% equity interest in the CCS hub, with Linde and SLB each owning a 20% stake.
The first phase of the hub, due for completion by late 2027, will have the capacity to capture nine million metric tons of CO2 from three Aramco gas plants and other industrial sources, with the potential for expansion in later phases. The captured CO2 will be transported through a pipeline network and stored below ground in a saline aquifer sink, leveraging the Kingdom’s geological potential for CO2 storage.
Net-zero ambitions
The project will support Aramco’s ambition to achieve net-zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions across its wholly-owned operated assets by 2050. It also complements the company’s blue hydrogen and ammonia initiatives.
Ashraf Al Ghazzawi, Aramco EVP of Strategy & Corporate Development, said, “CCS plays a critical role in furthering our sustainability ambitions and our new energies business. This announcement represents a step forward in delivering on our strategy to contribute to global carbon management solutions and achieve our emission mitigation goals. Aramco’s collaboration with SLB and Linde demonstrates the importance of global partnerships in driving technological innovation, reducing emissions from conventional energy sources and enabling new, lower-carbon energy solutions. This CCS hub is among several programmes that will enable us to meet rising demand for affordable, reliable, and more sustainable energy.”
Oliver Pfann, Linde EVP EMEA, added, “Carbon capture and sequestration is essential for achieving the Kingdom’s emission reduction targets. Linde is proud to collaborate with Aramco and SLB, contributing Linde’s innovative technology and experience in delivering world-scale decarbonization projects.”
Gavin Rennick, SLB president, New Energy, said, “Leveraging our proven portfolio of CCS technologies and extensive experience in complex CCS projects around the world, we are confident that SLB will play a critical role in advancing this important initiative. This project aligns perfectly with our commitment to industrial decarbonisation, and we look forward to collaborating closely with Aramco and Linde to make it a success.”
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