ADNOC and Microsoft released on Thursday the second edition of their joint report, “Empowering Potential”, which explores the opportunities and challenges surrounding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the global energy industry.
The report draws on insights from over 850 global experts across energy, technology, AI, academia, and finance, including Lisa Su, Chair and CEO of AMD, and Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency.
Key Findings: AI is Now Operational
The report reveals the industry has moved decisively from initial interest and pilot projects to full-scale implementation, confirming explosive growth in AI applications:
Automated Decisions: One in five companies has begun using “AI Agents” to automate precise decision-making, confirming that AI is now a vital, current tool, not a distant future plan.
Investment Surge: Nine out of ten leading companies surveyed have increased their investments in AI and digital infrastructure since 2024.
Widespread Use: 73% of these companies are utilizing smart technologies across multiple areas of their business.
Energy Fuels AI, AI Transforms Energy
The report highlights the mutual relationship between energy and AI: the energy sector provides the power needed to fuel AI innovation, while AI enhances operational efficiency, from predictive maintenance and smart grid management to real-time demand forecasting and carbon reduction.
A strong 88% of respondents agreed that expanding AI adoption is essential for transforming global energy systems. The top investment priorities identified include modernizing power grids (55%), energy storage solutions (38%), and advanced materials like high-efficiency conductors (33%) to meet rising energy demand from AI data centers.
Executive Insight
Commenting on the report, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, said:
“Guided by our leadership’s vision, the UAE continues to strengthen its global position in artificial intelligence. AI is already shaping the future of the energy sector — enhancing every process from predictive maintenance to the development of smart grids. At ADNOC, we are fully integrating AI across all operations to boost efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.”
Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice Chair and President, added:
“Meeting the demands of the AI era and the energy transition requires more than ambition — it requires partnership and innovation. Microsoft is working closely with energy leaders to reimagine systems, build workforce skills, and promote responsible AI practices.”
The Roadblocks Ahead
The report also sheds light on key challenges hindering full-scale AI integration in energy, including cybersecurity (49%), cost concerns, data quality (45%), and talent shortages (39%). Slow innovation cycles and legacy systems further complicate adoption.
As AI becomes more widespread, ensuring reliable and sustainable energy supply is emerging as a strategic priority. The growing interdependence between the two sectors highlights the need for coordinated efforts to enhance grid performance, reduce emissions, and optimize efficiency across the entire energy value chain.
The release of “Empowering Potential 2025” precedes the ENACT Council meetings in Abu Dhabi, hosted by ADNOC, bringing together more than 80 leaders from government, energy, finance, technology, and AI to discuss the future of global energy systems.
