Oil and gas companies are undergoing a seismic shift, driven by rapid digitalisation and the integration of advanced technologies, according to a new report by GlobalData for Rockwell Automation
According to the Oil and Gas Technology Outlook for 2030 and Beyond, which covers the key technologies in the oil and gas industry, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cybersecurity are at the forefront of this transformation, reshaping operations from exploration to refining.
The report outlines five critical findings:
1. Digitalisation is now a strategic imperative
Companies are moving beyond isolated tech deployments to fully integrated digital ecosystems. Over 50% of industry leaders report that technologies like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI are already disrupting their operations.
2. Key drivers fuelling adoption
Technological innovation, environmental compliance, supply chain resilience, and workforce challenges are accelerating the need for digital solutions. Predictive maintenance, remote monitoring, and automation are helping companies reduce downtime and improve safety.
3. Emerging technologies reshape operations
AI is being used to optimise drilling paths, forecast demand, and enhance refining processes. IoT sensors provide real-time data for equipment health and environmental monitoring. Electrification and smart motor systems are helping reduce emissions and energy costs.
4. Strategic roadmap for digital success
The report emphasises the importance of a clear digital strategy, choosing the right delivery model (e.g., SaaS or hybrid partnerships), and fostering a digital-first workforce. Companies must also stay ahead of evolving tech and data regulations.
5. AI as the central innovation engine
With projected spending in the energy sector reaching US$18.5bn by 2028, AI is enabling smarter decision-making, immersive training, and autonomous operations. Its integration with digital twins, edge computing, and VR/AR is unlocking new efficiencies across the value chain.
The report concludes that the pace of digitisation in the oil and gas industry will continue if not accelerate over coming years. The industry remains a hotbed of innovation as companies look to improve productivity, reduce downtime, and enhance safety. The pace of digitalisation also reflects the recent developments in the field of AI, which is seeing widespread application across multiple technology domains. Its integration with a range of other technologies is driving advancements and new capabilities that will further enhance innovation, performance and efficiency within the oil and gas industry.
However, digital technologies are not a core area of expertise among oil and gas companies. Considering the variety of digital solutions available in the market and the challenges that can arise when adopting these solutions, oil and gas companies need a clear digital strategy before embarking on, or widening, their digitalisation journey.
“The convergence of information and operational technology is redefining how energy companies operate,” said Fabio Mielli, strategic business developer, Rockwell Automation. “By aligning advanced digital tools with measurable production outcomes, we’re helping the industry build resilience and agility for the future.”
The full report is available from Rockwell Automation and GlobalData here.
Rockwell/GlobalData report highlights pace of digitalisation
The report forecasts an acceleration in the pace of digitalisation. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
