February 2017

So far, it seems like 2017 has started well for all in the energy business. Against a backdrop of volatile oil prices, global economic uncertainty, and a transitioning market place – with the dominant fuel being called into question – the big players have managed to post positive results. BP announced investments into a number of new projects, Total announced increases in net revenue against 2015, the renewable sector is gaining unstoppable momentum thanks to plummeting production costs, and nuclear has seen big projects announced or nearing completion in Southern Africa and the Middle East.

Following last month’s solar focus, this month we look to oil for inspiration and learn more about two impressive projects in the UK and Norwegian North Sea. Clair Ridge from BP and partners, and Martin Linge from Total and partners are both established fields that have expanded thanks to technical excellence and perseverance. Even after many experts said that these areas were too deep or had small or no deposits, the expertise and precision of the people working on the fields has resulted in all partners welcoming extended life and turnover thanks to new deposits being found.

We also look at how renewable energy is making its mark in Africa, specifically wind energy and specifically in Kenya where the Lake Turkana Wind Power project begins to come to life as one of the continents larges wind projects. This exciting and innovative project is an example of how expertise from across the world can combine to bring about extremely positive results.