Oil and Gas Industry Innovation Tracker: Automation and Autonomy, 2023

Technological and digital trends are transforming the oil and gas industry. Main players commonly choose operational technologies (OTs) to carry out the automation of their oil and gas processes; however, newer technologies, such as AI, IoT, and robotics are starting to gain more relevance in the industry.



Oil and gas companies have adopted automation technologies for their upstream activities, especially for offshore sites. The most common technologies include sensors, transmitters, and controllers, with SCADA systems, PLCs, and DCSs being the most common automation applications.



Several digitalization trends influenced the oil and gas automation market during the past few years, which are covered in this study. Additionally, pressing concerns have emerged in the oil and gas industry, such as its need to increase safety in the workplace and boost the efficiency and sustainability of production.



Digital technologies offer a solution to these problems in the form of automation technologies. The market is undergoing a digital transformation, and the industry’s activities will evolve to become more autonomous. Globally, the oil and gas industry’s digital transformation is noticeable. However, some regions are embracing these technological changes faster than others because of their preparedness and technological capabilities. North America, Europe, and APAC have prepared the most to face the industry’s transformation.



This study analyzes 6 dynamic firms that are making a significant impact on the innovation agenda for digitalization and automation in the oil and gas industry.