The energy sector is poised for a significant technological leap as the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and e&, a UAE-based tech and telecom group, announced a groundbreaking partnership to develop the industry's largest private 5G network. Spanning an impressive 11, 000 square kilometers, this high-bandwidth connectivity solution will revolutionize ADNOC's operations across both onshore and offshore facilities.
This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone in ADNOC's ambitious goal of becoming the world's leading AI-powered energy company. The robust 5G network will serve as the backbone for integrating advanced artificial intelligence solutions at even the most remote locations within ADNOC's vast network. This enhanced connectivity is expected to unlock a multitude of benefits, including significant cost reductions through automation, improved operational efficiency, and a minimized environmental footprint. Additionally, the project prioritizes worker safety by enabling the implementation of advanced safety protocols across ADNOC's operations.
The project timeline anticipates completion by 2025, with an estimated value generation of $1. 5 billion during its initial five years of operation. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE's Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and concurrently ADNOC's Managing Director and Group CEO, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating it represents "a milestone step in ADNOC's journey. " He further highlighted the critical role the 5G network will play in ensuring ADNOC's continued ability to deliver "secure, reliable and responsible energy" to its customers in a world experiencing a growing demand for both energy and AI solutions.
e&, formerly known as Etisalat, brings its expertise in cutting-edge telecommunication technologies to the table. This partnership allows e& to solidify its position as a leader in driving digital transformation within the energy sector. By leveraging the capabilities of 5G technology, e& will play a pivotal role in empowering ADNOC to achieve its ambitious goals of becoming a more operationally efficient, environmentally conscious, and worker-centric organization.
The ADNOC-e& partnership signifies a significant development not just for the UAE's energy sector, but for the global energy landscape as well. The successful implementation of this large-scale private 5G network has the potential to serve as a blueprint for other energy companies worldwide, paving the way for a future powered by AI and advanced digital technologies.