Energy Efficiency: Collecting Experiences from 20 Years of Efforts on The Norwegian Continental Shelf

Abstract

Abstract Energy efficiency constitutes a key solution for controlling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the oil and gas industry. The Norwegian Oil and Gas Association therefore established a joint industry project with the aim to set best practice guidance on energy management and efficiency. The project was built around the goal of facilitating experience-exchange and documenting best practice among oil and gas operators in Norway. The work consisted of five key elements. Firstly, an analysis provided an overview of the industry's maturity within energy management. Secondly, a set of company-specific meetings helped understanding each companies situation, and raising awareness internally on energy efficiency initiatives. Thirdly, workshops were organised, gathering 14 operators in Norway to facilitate experience exchange on energy management and energy efficiency opportunities. Fourthly, guidelines for implementing energy management in operations were then established based on input collected, and on practices from other industries. Fifthly, all the results are documented on an internet website available to the operators. The project provides a unique opportunity for cooperation. Project results indicate that operators have varying degrees of maturity and in-house practice with regards to energy management. Actions to improve energy efficiency also vary depending on companies, assets and resources, which provides a foundation for cross-company learning. In addition, the consultant has complemented industry experience with best practice from other industries worldwide. Furthermore, it was found that the forums for experience exchange on energy efficiency have been a key enabler for progress. It has also allowed the industry to jointly document and communicate efforts. Through sharing knowledge, the project has established best practices to seize opportunities and to help overcome challenges linked to implementing energy management and energy efficiency in the industry. Implementation of energy management in existing organisations constitute a change in practice. In order to be successful, this process requires support throughout the organisation, and is most effective when integrated with pre-existing routines. The project constitutes a step-up for the whole industry in its efforts towards a more efficient production. This paper provides further elements for successful implementation of energy management in the oil and gas industry.