Closing out a year of breakthroughs and collaboration in energy

Closing out a year of breakthroughs and collaboration in energy

The energy industry witnessed remarkable milestones in 2024, underpinned by groundbreaking advancements in hydrogen technologies, record-breaking renewable energy installations, and the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across energy systems. Global renewable energy capacity surged by over 300 GW, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), while hydrogen investments surpassed $200 billion, with over 50 large-scale projects reaching final investment decision (FID). Concurrently, the deployment of AI in energy management improved grid efficiency by up to 20%, accelerating the sector’s shift towards sustainability.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) capacity also expanded significantly, with global projects capturing more than 45 million tonnes of CO2 annually, a 15% increase from 2023. Modernisation of energy grids further facilitated the integration of distributed energy resources, improving grid stability and reliability amidst the growing demand for clean power. These advancements highlighted the industry's commitment to addressing climate challenges while opening pathways for economic and technological growth.

At Energy Connects, we were at the forefront of this pivotal year, capturing the energy sector’s momentum and bringing you unparalleled insights from leaders shaping the future. Our exclusive interviews and in-depth coverage with UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei, India's Hon’ble Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, and OPEC 's Secretary General His Excellency Haitham Al-Ghais explored breakthrough initiatives, from financing climate innovation to fostering collaboration across geographies. Key voices, including IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera and OGCI (Oil and Gas Climate Initiative)’s Julien Perez, offered unique perspectives on scaling renewables and accelerating low-carbon investments. Meanwhile, IEF - International Energy Forum's Secretary General Joe McMonigle discussed the critical role of natural gas and LNG as low carbon energy sources for the transition.

Throughout 2024, we reported on a wide array of events spanning the Americas, Asia, and the MENA region, including ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference, Gastech Exhibition & Conference, Future Energy Asia Exhibition & Summit, and the World Utilities Congress. Our studio served as the hub of impactful dialogue, hosting Simon Flowers of Wood Mackenzie, who emphasised the urgency of decarbonisation, and Hydrogen Council CEO Ivana Jemelkova, who highlighted the need to scale up hydrogen projects to meet global targets.

We also introduced several new content streams to provide more industry analysis and keep our audience informed on the key industry developments. The Energy Connects Quarterly Review debuted as the definitive guide for navigating industry priorities, seizing opportunities, and addressing emerging challenges.

Additionally, we launched Energy Connects Powerhouse Voices, an exclusive global interview series that delves into the journeys, philosophies, and leadership styles of the most influential figures shaping the energy industry today. In the debut episode Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes, shares his journey to leading one of the world’s most innovative energy technology companies.

This year also marked the inauguration of the Energy Connects Conference Hub, a first-of-its-kind platform offering exclusive access to insights and content from leading global energy conferences. The hub provides members with in-depth reports, keynote highlights, and expert analysis from events worldwide, enabling unparalleled access to the conversations shaping the future of energy.

The energy transition remained central to our expanded podcast series, where thought leaders such as Dr Carole Nakhle championed diversity as critical to the industry’s success.

As the decisions and advancements of 2024 continue to influence the energy landscape, Energy Connects remains your trusted source for expert analysis, innovative ideas, and global perspectives. Thank you for being part of this journey. We are excited to share more transformative insights with you in 2025. 

Wishing you a joyous festive season and a prosperous New Year!

Collaborative efforts to power a sustainable future for all

His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, shares his thoughts on the global energy landscape and how the world’s largest and most influential energy event engaged and united the industry this year for accelerated progress. Read the full interview.

How India’s achievements are accelerating its energy transition

His Excellency Hardeep Singh Puri , Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India , highlighted how India Energy Week 2025 will showcase the nation's rapidly evolving vision for the energy transition. Read the full interview.

Nuclear energy poised for its global moment

Dr. Sama Bilbao y Leon, Director General of the World Nuclear Association , discusses how nuclear energy is crucial for decarbonising the industry. She shares insights on tripling nuclear capacity by 2050 through their Net Zero Nuclear initiative, its role in low-carbon electricity and more. Listen to the podcast.

OPEC’s latest outlook sheds light on pivotal energy and oil demand trends

As global energy and oil demand trends evolve rapidly, His Excellency Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary General of OPEC , highlights the company's recent launch of the 2024 World Oil Outlook (WOO). This publication provides an extended assessment of global energy prospects, with projections reaching out to 2050. Read the full interview.

IEF: Natural gas to play a pivotal role as a transition solution

Joe McMonigle , Secretary General of the IEF - International Energy Forum , explains the need for clean gas utilisation and strategic investments to support the energy transition. Watch the full interview.

Lorenzo Simonelli: the inspiring innovator leading Baker Hughes

Kicking off our brand-new Powerhouse Voices series, Energy Connects welcomed Lorenzo Simonelli , Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes , to its inaugural episode. In this exclusive interview, he shared his personal journey from growing up in Italy to leading one of the world’s most innovative energy technology companies. Watch the full interview.

Wood Mackenzie Chairman: industry needs to pick up the pace on decarbonisation

Simon Flowers , Chairman and Chief Analyst at Wood Mackenzie, discussed structural challenges that the natural gas and LNG industry need to overcome to keep the momentum going, and how the sector is progressing on decarbonisation. Watch the full interview.

Developing a pragmatic blueprint for the energy transition

Peter Parry , Chairman, Global Energy and Natural Resources at Bain & Company , discussed the major themes and trends to look out for in 2025 when it comes to energy and natural resources – dominated by energy security and the critical role of AI. Watch the full interview.

More women in energy vital to the industry’s success

Dr Carole Nakhle , CEO of Crystol Energy and founder of Access for Women in Energy, discussed why increasing female representation across the industry is an urgent necessity. Listen to the podcast.

IPIECA Chair outlines a sustainable roadmap for the oil & gas sector

Paul Krishna, Chair of Ipieca, discussed the sustainable roadmap for the global gas & oil sector. He elaborated on the company's mandate in advancing environmental and social performance across the energy transition. Watch the full interview.

IRENA's DG on accelerating global renewable energy to meet 2030 targets

Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), outlined the organisation’s efforts to support nations - especially developing ones - in their energy transition. Watch the full interview.

Low-carbon investments a game-changer in tackling climate challenges

Julien Perez , Managing Director of OGCI (Oil and Gas Climate Initiative), discussed how the CEO-led oil and gas industry initiative accelerated action towards a net-zero future in alignment with the Paris Agreement. Watch the full interview.

The IEA’s outlook on India as the world’s biggest oil demand growth driver

Keisuke Sadamori , Director of Energy Markets and Security at the International Energy Agency (IEA), discussed the findings of the IEA’s Indian Oil Market 2030 report after its launch. He highlighted India’s role as the leading driver of oil demand growth through 2030 and its importance in future energy transition pathways. Watch the full interview.

Hydrogen Council CEO: industry hits $75b FID milestone but time to scale up to meet 2030 goals

Ivana Jemelkova , the CEO of Hydrogen Council, discussed the rapidly maturing hydrogen project pipeline outlined in the Council’s latest Hydrogen Insights report. Watch the full interview.

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Bahar-Energy. Choudhary (Studied Business-Law)

Director/Formr College Principal: Oil Mandate, Selling: EN590, JetA1, D6, LNG, Urea, Gold: Registd Company. Members: Londn & Arab, WLond, Chambers, IoD, Bankers, MNEA. Trustee, City Lond Freeman, UNA-UK. Politics UK

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SEASON'S GREETINGS. Wishing you all a joyful Holiday and prosperous New Year. Bahar Choudhary. email: bahar.choudhary@baharenergy.co.uk

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Julien Perez

Managing Director at OGCI and OGDC; Climate and Energy lead; Board member; MBA

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Many thanks for having me, and may 2025 be even more successful for Energy Connects

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