The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, ADNOC, said today it would implement a host of measures to increase energy efficiency by 10 percent by 2020. The energy efficiency strategy will reduce ADNOC’s gas consumption by 156 million cu. ft a day, thus saving a total of US$1 billion by that time.

The initiatives to enhance energy efficiency have already cut CO2 emissions by 3.1 million tonnes, the equivalent of 658,800 car rides a year, compared to 2014. Further drop in emissions will happen over the next three years as additional operational efficiencies are introduced.

ADNOC’s energy efficiency plans were announced on the second day of the World Future Energy Summit, WFES, part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, ADSW, being held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, ADNEC.

As part of its initiative, ADNOC will optimise energy usage, consumption and performance across a range of industry-related activities, and upgrade systems to measure and record data for better energy planning.

"ADNOC’s commitment to energy efficiency has already brought significant tangible results," said Omar Al Suwaidi, Director of Gas Management, ADNOC Group. "These efficiencies are going to drive further cost savings and enable us to create maximum value from our gas resources. This will not only improve profitability, but will also enable ADNOC to achieve its strategic goal of meeting Abu Dhabi’s rising energy demand from domestic gas supplies."

In addition to its in-house energy efficiency plans, ADNOC is also working on the demand side, encouraging improved energy performances by its stakeholders and contractors in support of an energy-efficient economy in the UAE.

Al Suwaidi, who took part in a WFES panel discussion titled "Decarbonising Business," said ADNOC’s energy efficiency initiative proves that environmental sustainability and economic sustainability don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Integrating energy-efficient technologies into operations can and does deliver tangible bottom-line business results.

"At ADNOC, we are significantly changing our business practices. For example, we have received ISO 50001 certification for the implementation of an energy management system to further increase efficiency. More cost savings will accrue as new technologies are implemented across our onshore and offshore facilities," he added.

ADNOC is the first major oil and gas company to be awarded ISO 50001 at a corporate level and for its operating companies.