The global energy ecosystem is currently undergoing a massive transformation, and in the decades ahead, it will continue to become more decentralized, digitalised, and decarbonised. To reach the commitments made under the 2015 Paris Agreement – limiting the global temperature rise to well below 2°C – this transition must accelerate. 

In recent years, the energy sector has become increasingly digital and it is clear that further digitalization will be a key feature of the energy transition and an essential driver of the sector’s progress towards ambitious climate goals. 

With us today on PodChats for FutureCIO is Leonard Lee, president for Beyond Limits Asia Pacific. 

1.       What are some challenges that the oil and gas (energy) sector face today regarding digitalization? 

2.       How do these challenges affect efforts by the energy sector to carbon reduction targets and possibly be more sustainable? 

3.       What is Cognitive AI?  Where does it fit in the different types of AI – narrow AI, general AI and super intelligence AI? 
 How can Cognitive AI be a differentiator for the energy sector, be it traditional or green energy within the Southeast Asia region?
 How can AI improve operational efficiencies across the energy industry, especially for Southeast Asian companies that are new or undergoing rapid transformation while trying to tackle critical concerns such as sustainability?
 How active can AI play out this crucial role in the energy sector to achieve sustainability goals? 

4.       For business leaders in the energy sector, how do they go about assessing whether AI makes business sense for them? 

5.       Given the many priorities of the energy sector, including carbon targets, alternative energy development, cybersecurity and even transformation, and against the backdrop of rising energy costs, how do the energy sector leaders prioritize their investments strategies?