In a significant move to enhance sustainability in the oil and gas sector, two service companies, e2Companies and Nabors Industries, have recently forged a partnership aimed at electrifying operations within key energy markets, notably in the Permian Basin and Bakken oilfields. The announcement, made on December 10, marks a strategic venture that responds to the increasing demand for integrated power solutions that both electrify oil and gas operations and minimise emissions.
The collaboration seeks to leverage Nabors’ established oil and gas technology portfolio alongside e2’s innovative Virtual Utility system, which encompasses on-site power generation, energy storage, and grid optimisation services. Additionally, the partnership is exploring the incorporation of renewable energy sources, including geothermal and solar power, into their desired solutions. Nabors’ CEO, Anthony Petrello, emphasised the pivotal role of electrification in emission reduction, stating, “Electrification is a key enabler to reducing emissions. The industry needs to take a more holistic approach—considering the entire lifecycle from drilling and completions through production—to design electrification strategies that maximise efficiency and sustainability.”
Concurrently, ProPetro Holding Corp. announced on the same day its intention to launch its inaugural new organic service line in a decade, which will focus on power generation for the oil and gas market. The newly formed ProPetro Energy Solutions, operating under the brand name ProPWR, has committed to acquiring 110 megawatts of natural gas-fired mobile power generation equipment designated for oilfield and industrial applications. The total investment for this venture is reported to be $122 million, with equipment deliveries anticipated between June 2025 and March 2026.
ProPetro is positioning itself to expand its reach beyond oil and gas operations. Travis Simmering, president of ProPWR, noted that while the initial focus will be on oilfield power applications, the company intends to develop a platform that remains competitive in non-oil and gas markets such as general industrial projects and data centres, asserting that “we believe are likely to gravitate towards the Permian Basin.”
These developments come at a time when the oil and gas industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. According to the International Energy Agency, this sector contributes nearly 15% of global energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. Research firm Rystad Energy has indicated that emissions associated with oil and gas production facilities could potentially be reduced by more than 80% through fuel-switching to electricity generated from renewable sources or natural gas that would otherwise be flared.
The initiatives by e2Companies, Nabors, and ProPetro reflect a growing trend towards electrification and sustainability in the energy sector, signalling a strategic shift in how oil and gas companies are approaching environmental challenges and operational efficiency.
Source: Noah Wire Services