Қазан 2025

Cybersecurity Drives Digital Investment in Oil & Gas: Industrial Automation Takes Center Stage

Rockwell Automation’s latest report, The Oil and Gas Technology Outlook for 2030 and Beyond, reveals a pivotal shift in how energy companies approach digital transformation. Cyber threats now rank among the top drivers of technology investment, alongside operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and workforce challenges.

Digitalization Becomes a Strategic Imperative in Industrial Automation

Oil and gas firms are moving from isolated tech deployments to integrated digital ecosystems. This transition reflects a broader trend in industrial automation, where technologies like PLCs, DCS, and control systems are being unified for real-time visibility and data-driven decision-making. As a result, companies gain agility and resilience across upstream and downstream operations.

AI, Cloud, and Cybersecurity Disrupt Traditional Control Systems

According to Rockwell and GlobalData, over 50% of industry leaders report disruption from cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI. These technologies now underpin factory automation strategies, enabling predictive maintenance, remote monitoring, and autonomous operations. AI-powered analytics optimize drilling paths and refining processes, while IoT sensors monitor equipment health and emissions.

Workforce Shortages Accelerate Automation and Immersive Training

Labor shortages and aging personnel challenge operational continuity. Companies increasingly rely on automation and immersive training tools—such as AR/VR and wearables—to upskill new workers. These technologies simulate hazardous environments, allowing safe practice before field deployment. However, the lack of skilled staff to manage advanced systems remains a concern.

Predictive Maintenance Enhances Safety and Reduces Downtime

Offshore assets face harsh conditions like saltwater corrosion and high winds. Predictive maintenance, powered by AI and industrial sensors, helps detect failures before they occur. This approach minimizes unplanned shutdowns and improves safety. In factory automation, similar strategies are used to maintain uptime across distributed control systems.

Supply Chain Integration Strengthens Operational Efficiency

Digital tools now connect suppliers, logistics, and project management platforms. These integrations improve visibility and automate workflows across land and sea routes. For industrial automation, this means faster commissioning, streamlined procurement, and better coordination between control system vendors and energy operators.

Environmental Compliance Spurs Smart Motor Systems and Emissions Monitoring

Sustainability pressures drive adoption of smart motor systems and methane sensors. These technologies reduce energy consumption and detect leaks in real time. Predictive analytics also help companies adapt to evolving regulations, ensuring compliance across geographically dispersed assets.

Cybersecurity Threats Escalate Across IT and OT Domains

Cyberattacks have intensified, targeting critical infrastructure. The Colonial Pipeline breach and other incidents highlight vulnerabilities in legacy systems. As industrial automation expands its digital footprint, companies must secure both IT and OT environments. AI-based threat detection, trained on labeled attack datasets, offers proactive defense against ransomware and state-linked threats.

Strategic Recommendations for Industrial Automation Leaders

To stay competitive, oil and gas firms must: