ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, October 22. The use of
artificial intelligence (AI), automation and real-time data
monitoring can improve the accuracy of oil and gas well drilling,
enable timely adjustments to well trajectories and reduce
drilling-related costs, SLB General Director in Turkmenistan Ahmed
Mohamed Metwalli said, Trend's special correspondent reports.
He made the remarks on October 22 at the 31st International
Conference and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan” (OGT 2026)
in Ashgabat.
According to him, the oil and gas industry has accumulated vast
amounts of data over decades, but collecting data alone does not
guarantee greater efficiency. The main challenge is turning this
information into practical decisions when planning and carrying out
drilling operations.
“Data collection alone is not enough. The question is what we do
with that data and how we turn it into actions that help us make
better-informed decisions when drilling wells,” Metwalli noted.
He explained that AI algorithms can analyze geological and other
available data to identify promising drilling locations and
determine the optimal well trajectory. This helps reduce the risk
of deviating from the target path and avoid additional costs
associated with isolating a problematic section of a well and
drilling a sidetrack.
Metwalli also highlighted real-time remote drilling monitoring
as another tool for improving efficiency. Analyzing incoming data
makes it possible to assess conditions at a given depth promptly
and adjust the well's direction during drilling if necessary, he
said.
“When you are drilling a well and encounter certain conditions
at a particular depth, remote data monitoring allows you to make
better-informed decisions and adjust the drilling trajectory to
reach the desired direction and depth,” he said.
Metwalli stressed that adopting modern technologies and
automation is particularly important given the high costs and risks
associated with drilling. Combining accumulated data with
analytical tools helps improve the quality of technical decisions
and reduce the likelihood of additional expenses.
SLB, formerly known as Schlumberger, is an international
technology company operating in the oil and gas industry and
developing solutions for hydrocarbon exploration, drilling and
production. The company uses digital platforms, AI and remote
monitoring technologies to improve the efficiency of industrial
operations. In 2022, Schlumberger announced its transition to the
SLB brand to reflect the expansion of its activities in energy
technology.
Meanwhile, the second day of the 31st International Conference
and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan” (OGT 2026) has begun
in Ashgabat. As part of the event, a session is being held on the
topic “Investment and development opportunities in the Turkmen
sector of the Caspian Sea.” Discussions are focusing on investment
opportunities for developing the Turkmen sector, prospects for
offshore exploration and production of hydrocarbons, and the
development of international partnerships.
The agenda also includes existing and new production-sharing
agreements (PSAs), as well as modern seismic survey programs
designed to help assess resource potential and prepare promising
blocks for development.
