Chevron, a major player in the U.S. energy sector, is expanding its global footprint with a significant investment in India. The company is pouring $1 billion into a new engineering and tech centre in Bengaluru. This move is part of Chevron’s broader plan to develop affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy solutions for a more sustainable future.
Why Bengaluru?
Chevron, with annual revenues of $200 billion, chose Bengaluru as the site for its new tech centre due to India’s growing role in the global technology landscape. The new facility will focus on creating innovative energy solutions, supporting the company’s mission to lead in the global energy transition.
Akshay Sahni, the newly appointed head of Chevron India, explained, “This is a major step in Chevron’s history, and we are excited to build a world-class technology hub here in Bengaluru. Our aim is to deliver the innovations needed to address the global challenge of providing affordable energy while working towards a lower carbon future.”
Focus on Digital Labs and AI
Chevron’s tech centre will establish digital labs that focus on cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and neural networks. These labs will play a critical role in solving complex energy problems. For instance, AI and machine learning will be used to analyse underground geological structures. This technology will help Chevron find the best sites for carbon storage and improve the safety and efficiency of its drilling operations.
Digital Twins for Enhanced Operations
One of the key projects at the new Bengaluru centre will involve creating digital twins of complex industrial facilities. These digital replicas will monitor and optimise operations globally, ensuring a more efficient and dependable supply chain. Chevron believes this technology will be essential in maintaining and improving its energy production processes worldwide.
According to Sahni, “Our focus is on making operations smoother and safer by using advanced technology like digital twins. This will allow us to monitor facilities around the world in real-time and make necessary adjustments to enhance efficiency.”
Use of Robotics in Energy Operations
Chevron is also incorporating robotics into its energy operations. The company has partnered with Boston Dynamics to develop a four-legged robot called “Spot.” This robot, equipped with sensors and thermal cameras, is designed to navigate industrial sites and monitor equipment. It can identify potential issues before they become serious problems, which helps Chevron maintain safer and more reliable operations.
Sahni mentioned, “We are already using robotics in various capacities. Spot has been instrumental in monitoring industrial equipment and detecting issues early on, which is crucial for ensuring operational safety.”
Chevron New Tech Centre in India
Chevron’s investment in Bengaluru is part of its broader strategy to support the global energy transition. By developing advanced technology solutions, the company aims to address the challenges of providing energy that is both affordable and environmentally sustainable.
The new technology centre in Bengaluru represents Chevron’s commitment to innovation in the energy sector. The centre’s work will be pivotal in creating solutions that help reduce carbon emissions, enhance energy production efficiency, and ensure a more sustainable future.
With a $1 billion investment in Bengaluru, Chevron is set to make significant strides in the global energy sector. By focusing on AI, digital twins, and robotics, the company aims to lead the way in developing cleaner, more reliable energy solutions. This new tech centre will not only enhance Chevron’s global operations but also play a key role in the worldwide transition to a lower-carbon future.
