Oil and Gas Companies Energy Shift Analysis

Assignment Brief

Module Title: Research Dissertation and Further Professional Development for Energy Students

Module Code: 604OGE

Introduction:

Research is an essential skill both for continued academic development and future employability skills. A research project provides the opportunity to develop deeper learning into a specific area and develop research skills for life.

Completion of this assignment will address the following learning outcomes:

1. Plan and take responsibility for a self-managed research investigation within an appropriate ethical framework.
2. Research and compile information relevant to a specialist subject area in which the investigation is based.
3. Study and critically review the body of knowledge related to the investigation topic, assessing its reliability, validity, and significance.
4. Demonstrate an appropriate level of competence in the execution of the selected research methodology, employing appropriate scientific/design principles.
5. Undertake the investigation, analysis and critically evaluate the outcome, formulating coherent conclusions from the work undertaken.
6. Present critical matters and findings of the research in the form of an effective, detailed and coherent written dissertation and technical poster. The dissertation should utilise appropriate academic methods of writing and citation, and following a prescribed format, and avoiding plagiarism.
7. Demonstrate professional writing skills as appropriate to their sector
8. Apply appropriate people skills in a range of situations
9. Understand and be able to adapt to a range of workplace environments and workplace etiquette.
10. Understand the opportunities available to them in terms of future study, graduate schemes and employment
11. Plan effectively towards achieving their career goals and be able to apply for graduate level posts or further study

Title: Project Task:

• In a research project of 8,000 words, analyse one or more strategic problem in the oil, gas and energy sector and produce a comprehensive report detailing the objectives, methodologies, findings, analysis, and conclusions of the research carried out above.
• You should also include a career plan and reflection of 1,000 words on how the course and this project has helped your employability in an attached appendix.
• You should provide a record of project supervision meetings in an attached appendix.

Sample Answer

Strategic Challenges of Energy Transition: An Analysis of Oil and Gas Companies’ Adaptation towards Renewable Energy Integration

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the strategic challenge of energy transition within the oil, gas, and energy sector, focusing on how companies are adapting to the global shift towards renewable energy. It explores the underlying drivers of transition, reviews the academic and industrial literature, and evaluates the strategies adopted by leading organisations. Using secondary data analysis and case studies, the research identifies persistent barriers such as financial constraints, policy uncertainty, and technological limitations, alongside opportunities in hydrogen, wind, and carbon capture technologies. The study concludes that although oil and gas companies have made initial progress, the pace of change remains insufficient to meet global sustainability targets. Recommendations emphasise the importance of clear transition roadmaps, innovation, and collaboration with stakeholders.

Introduction

The global energy industry is currently experiencing an unprecedented period of transformation. Climate change, international policy commitments, and societal expectations have placed immense pressure on oil and gas companies to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and integrate renewable alternatives. For decades, these companies have provided the foundation of global energy supply, yet their reliance on hydrocarbons now presents both reputational and financial risks. This dissertation examines the strategic problem of energy transition in the oil and gas sector, analysing how firms are responding to increasing calls for decarbonisation and what this means for long-term competitiveness.

The study has three interconnected objectives. Firstly, it aims to assess the challenges facing oil and gas firms as they attempt to diversify into renewable energy. Secondly, it seeks to evaluate the strategies currently employed by key industry actors in pursuit of sustainability. Finally, it intends to provide a critical analysis of the effectiveness of these approaches, drawing on industry data, academic research, and case studies, before formulating practical recommendations.

Literature Review

The body of literature on energy transition is vast, reflecting its significance as both a global necessity and a corporate challenge. Scholars consistently highlight the role of international agreements, such as the Paris Accord, in shaping industry direction. Carbon pricing, emission regulations, and policy frameworks create both incentives and constraints for companies seeking to reduce emissions. Alongside regulatory pressures, public opinion and stakeholder expectations have become central forces that shape corporate reputation and investor confidence.

Technological innovation emerges as another recurring theme. The growth of wind, solar, and hydrogen technologies has presented oil and gas firms with new investment opportunities. However, the integration of these technologies into traditional infrastructure remains complex, requiring both financial capital and specialised expertise. Economic risk is also a critical issue: while renewables promise long-term benefits, they often involve high upfront costs and uncertain returns, particularly in markets still dominated by fossil fuel consumption.

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