Saudi Aramco, Emerson sign deal for digital transformation

US-based technology and engineering company Emerson has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Aramco to bring advanced digitization and automation technologies to Saudi Arabia’s national oil company.

The MoU was signed during the Saudi-US CEO Forum held last month, on the sidelines of US President Donald Trump’s visit to the Kingdom.

The agreement will allow Emerson to explore collaboration with Saudi Aramco in the use of Emerson’s Plantweb digital ecosystem, which utilizes the Industrial Internet of Things, wireless, and smart instrumentation technologies, the US firm said in a statement.

It will also pave the way for digital oil field initiatives, research and development of advanced applications for process automation, and consultancy services in the areas of reliability, energy conservation, and flow assurance.

Emerson also plans to use it “Project Certainty” initiative to help Saudi Aramco reduce costs and schedules for future projects.

As part of the agreement, Emerson will continue investing in the Kingdom by training Saudi Aramco engineers and technicians through Emerson’s educational facility and creating more jobs for Saudi locals, the statement said.

“This collaboration will aid in strengthening the digital transformation of Saudi Aramco,” David N. Farr, chairman and CEO of Emerson, said in the statement. “More doors will be opened for developing talent and training our workforce across the Kingdom.”

Emerson is currently developing of its own facility in Saudi Arabia’s Dhahran Techno Valley, with an investment of $25 million.

The facility, which is scheduled for completion in January 2018, will provide support and services to the oil and gas, mining and other process industries across Saudi Arabia.