In order to meet the world's growing energy needs and at the same time contribute to reducing emissions, Aker BP is investing heavily in new technology that will reduce the costs and carbon emissions associated with oil and gas production.
Our goal is to become the world's first data-driven oil and gas company, says Paula Doyle, Chief Digital Officer of Aker BP.
Aker BP's strategy to build the exploration and production company of the future with low costs and low emissions is largely based on technology, with data and artificial intelligence (AI) in particular playing a key role.
-We have been very focused on data and digital over the past eight years. An example is the operation of marine gas turbines. We have developed algorithms based on operating data that optimize turbine utilization so that carbon dioxide emissions are significantly reduced, says Doyle.
Another example where data and AI are at the center is the development of Yggdrasil with Aker BP as operator. This is the largest ongoing oil and gas project on the Norwegian continental shelf with a total investment of approximately NOK 115 billion, with world-leading low emissions since the energy supply comes from the ground.
The development in the North Sea also represents a major technological advance in remotely controlled operation, unmanned platforms, and the use of data-driven decision-making processes. When the area goes into production in 2027, it will be remotely controlled, among other things, from an integrated reaction center and control room on the ground in Stavanger.
This center will use advanced digital technology to monitor and improve operations in real time, based on data analysis and predictive modeling, says Doyle.
– Through the use of advanced digital technology and data analysis, Aker BP aims to reduce environmental impact, increase safety and improve efficiency in production in all the fields in which we operate, sums up Doyle.
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Artificial intelligence is the new gold
Part of this transformation is collaboration with Tietoevry technology serviceswhich provides customized technology solutions and AI tools to support Aker BP's vision.
Denis Peter, Head of Industrial and Commercial Sector at Tietoevry Tech Services, emphasizes the importance of data in industry:
Data is part of many contexts, including technology, human security, and environmental factors. By using advanced technologies, we can improve decision-making and optimize production.
Tietoevry Tech Services, which counts Aker BP as one of its strategic clients, along with many other companies, plays an important role in this transformation.
Peter says Tietoevry Tech Services' approach to digitization consists of three steps: digitizing the technical side, innovating the operating model, and supporting customers in the business.
“We help customers stabilize existing infrastructure and applications, innovate the operating model to streamline data flow in the enterprise, and improve business processes with the help of data,” he says.
Tietoevry Tech Services uses AI and data to achieve operational efficiency and control, insight for predictive and regulatory maintenance, and to help businesses reduce production costs.
– Artificial intelligence is the new gold, but value can only be extracted through good data, stresses Peter.
Read more about Tietoevry technical services
Room for experimentation
Technological evolution at Aker BP also requires a cultural transformation.
– It is important to embrace change and use technology to change the way we work. We should dare to try new things and learn from our mistakes, Doyle says.
She says Aker BP has always had an entrepreneurial spirit that attracts innovative and forward-looking employees.
The company focuses on maintaining a culture where there is room for experimentation and failure, which is absolutely essential for innovation. Doyle concludes that this culture stems from the top of the organization, with tech-savvy leaders promoting an open and experimental approach.
“Web specialist. Lifelong zombie maven. Coffee ninja. Hipster-friendly analyst.”
