A Time of Change: Focusing on Energy Efficiency & Conservation

The economic downturn that began more than a year and a half ago seems to have bottomed out, according to analysts, who say they expect to see an uptick in the industry by the end of the year or early 2011. We’ve been hearing a similar story for months, but the continuing positive change in crude prices and strengthening of the U.S. dollar are signs the industry is on the rebound, at least on one side of the world. Some analysts have held the view that the United States would and should be the leading country to help pull the rest of the planet out of the “global recession.”

More traditional forms of renewable energy such as solar and wind are increasing their footprint as companies are installing and operating the “first,” the “biggest,” the “most efficient” solar and wind farms across the United States and hosting dedicated conferences globally.

During my trip to Austin, Texas, in March for the Gas Processors Association’s annual meeting, which had a healthy attendance, I saw a number of “solar pump” charging stations (see below) for mobile devices such as cell phones, cameras, iPods, laptop computers and even electric scooters. “If it has a standard electric plug, you can plug it in here,” read a sign affixed to the station. “Then you can have a seat at the counter and enjoy being off the grid.” The station had a couple of seats and a table affixed to it where you could relax and wait for your electronics to charge. Perhaps someday soon they’ll have attendants serving snacks and drinks while you wait.

Industry executives are approaching business operations in a smarter and more creative way – seeing the fast pace at which change is occurring and being able to supply the technologies to keep up with evolving markets.

During a recent 2010 Leadership in Oil and Gas event in Houston presented by Argyle Executive Forum, top-tier company representatives presented their views of the industry. One executive noted that there needs to be more focus on energy efficiency and conservation.

Another executive panel discussed the future of natural gas, noting that while prices will remain depressed in the near term, the excess supply and continuing political pressure worldwide to use natural gas rather than competing products like coal should make the natural gas market strong in the future.

The economic decline has challenged the industry to come up with better, smarter, more efficient and environmentally friendly ways of conducting business, executing technologies and running operations in the near- and long terms.

Until next time, have a safe journey, wherever it may take you.