Adnoc deploys AIQ’s RoboWell AI solution in offshore operations

Adnoc on Thursday announced the deployment of RoboWell, AIQ’s pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) autonomous well-control solution, in its operations at the offshore NASR field. This world-first offshore deployment of RoboWell highlights how Adnoc is leveraging advanced technologies to drive efficiencies and ensure a secure, reliable and responsible supply of energy.

Deployed in partnership with AIQ, the Abu Dhabi-based AI champion delivering transformative solutions to the energy sector, RoboWell uses cloud-based AI algorithms to autonomously operate wells that self-adjust according to changing conditions. This enhances the safe operation of the well, improves efficiency, reduces the need for travel and physical interventions, and so minimizes emissions.

Abdulmunim Saif Al Kindy, Adnoc Upstream Executive Director, said: “The offshore deployment of RoboWell at NASR field demonstrates how Adnoc is harnessing the power of AI as we responsibly meet growing global energy demand.”

“Adnoc’s aim is to become the world’s most AI-enabled energy company, integrating AI from the control room to the board room to maximise efficiency and move towards autonomous operations.” “Through our partnership with AIQ we are leveraging the UAE’s world-leading expertise in energy and AI to help transform the future of energy.”

Located 130 kilometers northwest of Abu Dhabi, NASR is a fully digital offshore field that uses a suite of technology solutions to maximize production and minimize emissions. RoboWell has been deployed across an initial 10 wells at NASR, with further deployment of the AI solution scheduled at over 300 wells across Adnoc’s offshore and onshore operations this year.

Dr. Chris Cooper, AIQ CEO, said, “AIQ leverages AI and machine learning solutions that unlock value across the entire value chain of the energy sector.

RoboWell has already been proven to deliver up to 30 per cent optimisation in gas lift consumption and up to 5 per cent increase in operating efficiency, so the expanded implementation of the solution represents a pivotal step for AIQ and Adnoc. By harnessing this leading-edge technology, we are enabling Adnoc to drive greater value from its resources and further optimize its operations.’’

RoboWell was developed by AIQ and Adnoc’s Thamama Excellence Center, a state-of-the-art hub that leverages big data, digitalisation and smart analytics to help access hydrocarbon resources and unlock greater value from existing reservoirs. RoboWell was first deployed in 2023 at the onshore NEB field, Adnoc’s first “smart field”, which has pioneered the implementation of industry-leading AI-enabled advanced technologies.

Meanwhile Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has earmarked a 40 per cent stake in its Ruwais liquefied natural gas (LNG) project to four energy majors Shell , TotalEnergies, BP, and Japan’s Mitsui , sources told Reuters.

The four companies are expected to get a stake of 10 per cent each in the project which will more than double UAE’s output of the sea-borne fuel and is expected to produce about 9.6 million metric tons per annum (mtpa) by late 2028, the sources said.

One source said Adnoc plans to assign another 5 per cent stake to another partner, without giving details.

Adnoc has also allocated 2 mtpa to shareholders, another source said, speaking like others on condition of anonymity Due to sensitivity of the talks. The companies are expected to get the offtake at a lower price compared to the market, but with less flexibility, the source said.

Shell and BP declined to comment.

Adnoc, TotalEnergies, Mitsui did not immediately respond to request for comment.

The project, which has received final investment decision for in June, is expected to be key for Shell and TotalEnergie’s Middle East-Asia LNG trade.

The state oil giant has big ambitions in gas and LNG, which along with renewable energy and petrochemicals it sees as pillars for its future growth.

It currently produces around 6 mtpa of LNG and aims to lift its capacity to 15 mtpa.

As demand for natural gas spiked following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, several Gulf countries have looked to capitalise. Qatar this year announced a further expansion of its North Field project that will cement it as one of the world’s top LNG exporters.

ADNOC has already signed supply deals with Germany’s EnBW and Securing Energy for Europe (SEFE), as well as China’s ENN Natural Gas.

The project is expected to be the region’s first LNG export facility to run on clean power.