KUWAIT: Secretary General of the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) Jamal Al-Loughani affirmed Monday that innovation has become a strategic necessity—not merely an option—for driving sustainable energy transformation, bolstering energy security, improving resource efficiency, and addressing the intertwined demands of economic and environmental development.
In a press statement issued to mark World Creativity and Innovation Day, observed globally on April 21 under the United Nations framework, Al-Loughani emphasized that OAPEC’s updated vision encompasses all aspects of the energy sector. He said the organization prioritizes innovation, scientific research, the empowerment of national expertise, and the promotion of knowledge and experience exchange among member states as part of its 15 strategic initiatives aimed at advancing a more flexible, efficient, and sustainable Arab energy system.
He noted that several member states have already adopted innovative approaches across various stages of the energy value chain, integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twin systems to enhance operational efficiency, while also deploying carbon capture and storage (CCS) techniques to curb emissions. These innovations, he added, extend to predictive maintenance, failure-risk management, and the transition toward environmentally friendly energy products in the refining and petrochemical sectors, alongside the growing deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen.
Al-Loughani highlighted notable models in innovation among member states, including Saudi Arabia’s oil-to-chemicals project at Aramco and carbon capture initiatives in Jubail. He also cited Egypt’s efforts to reduce flare gas emissions at refineries such as Midor, improve energy performance in petrochemical plants, and integrate solar energy into industrial operations.
He further referenced Libya’s initiatives to power remote production sites with solar energy and apply digital tools in field management. Additional efforts in Algeria, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain include investments in renewable energy, infrastructure digitization, and the use of robotics and drones. “These examples are just the beginning of a long-term transformation journey,” Al-Loughani stated, “one that places innovation at the heart of future energy policies and projects across the Arab region.” – KUNA
