The Energy Story

THE

ENERGY STORY LIKE NO OTHER

AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE From Oasis convenience stores and rewarding loyalty points, to AI-enabled experiences at service stations, ADNOC Distribution always remains ahead of the game Staff report

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he UAE has come a long way since the 1960s when the first service stations to appear featured nothing more than two or three fuel dispensers on a desolate stretch of land.

The formation of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in 1971 and ADNOC Distribution in 1973 catalysed the collective energy transformation.

From day one, the company made startling differences to our daily journeys by continuously reimagining the possibilities of what a service station can offer its customers.

In the 50 years since its inception, the company has pioneered the service station experience by investing in countless new offerings. However, as a future-focused company, ADNOC Distribution dreams big, standing at the forefront of change and sustainability, diversifying its offerings and responding to the demands of customers and shareholders alike.

ADNOC Distribution’s journey of innovation and diversification continues to expand in various directions. For example, the company recently became the region’s first fuel distributor to introduce innovative ‘Fill & Go’ technology at its service stations. The AI-backed solution utilises the latest innovations in computer vision technologies to offer a hyper-personalised fuelling experience.

Customers can opt for an automatic refuelling process based on their preferred fuel type and spending amount, offering

ADNOC Distribution & TAQA reveal E2GO a faster and smoother experience. They are also invited to take advantage of personalised ADNOC Oasis offers presented to them on digital screens.

Critically, ADNOC Distribution also announced plans to reduce its carbon intensity by 25 per cent by 2030, putting sustainability at the core of its day-to-day operations to future-proof its business and deliver sustainable long-term shareholder value. To accomplish this goal, the company has a wealth of initiatives, from installing solar panels to power service stations and using biofuels in its fleet of

The formation of ADNOC in 1971 and ADNOC Distribution in 1973 catalysed the collective energy transformation.

From day one, the company made startling differences by reimagining the possibilities of what a service station can offer.

Service Station Abu Dhabi

vehicles, in addition to expanding its network of EV charging stations.

To that end, one of the most recent innovations for ADNOC Distribution came in early 2023, when the company agreed to establish a mobility joint venture, E2GO, with Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) to build and operate EV infrastructure in Abu Dhabi and the

wider UAE. With EV demand projected to grow by 30 per cent annually by 2028, the company is well-positioned to capture a leadership position in this space.

The decision to take the first steps on this journey has come at an opportune time in the development of the UAE’s EV market, with an expected 70,000 charging points required in Abu Dhabi by 2030

Fill & Go

to meet growing EV demand.

But perhaps the most important aspect of ADNOC Distribution’s journey is its commitment to giving back to the customers. The company recently announced that customers will earn up to three times more loyalty reward points on every purchase, earning more so they can enjoy more of the quality ADNOC products they love. ADNOC Reward points are redeemable against purchases made across the entire service station offering, including fuel purchases, ADNOC Oasis, carwash, LPG, vehicle inspection centres, and more.

The first-of-its-kind fuel loyalty programme in the UAE, ADNOC Rewards has continuously delivered tailored offers to suit customers’ evolving needs since it was launched in 2019. By investing in its customers and their loyalty, ADNOC Distribution is ensuring that it remains the leading fuel retailer in the UAE and beyond.

Looking forward to the next five decades, ADNOC Distribution’s innovations on the horizon will not only futureproof the company, but also continue to transform the experience customers enjoy across the nation.

UNLEASHING THE POWER OF ELECTRIFICATION new eCanter comes with six wheelbases and a gross vehicle weight of 4.25 to 8.55 tons. Depending on the wheelbase, three different battery packs are available. The battery pack in the S variant enables a range*3 of up to 70 km. In the M variant, the the range*3 is up to 140 km. The L variant, as the most powerful package, offers a nominal capacity of 124 kWh and a range*3 of up to 200 kilometers. Recuperation can increase the range even further, which also minimizes charging time.

Introducing the MercedesBenz eActros, eEconic, FUSO eCanter, and eCitaro for sustainable transportation solutions, Daimler Truck presents an impressive lineup of zero-emission vehicles

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aimler Truck is committed to reducing the environmental impact of transportation, and recognizes the vital role the industry plays in achieving the goals of the Paris Climate Protection Agreement. The transportation sector is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the company believes in taking responsibility to take meaningful action to address this issue. The company is proud to be leading the way with its range of Zero Emission Vehicles, which offer a sustainable and efficient solution for the future of transportation.

To get there, Daimler Truck is pursuing a dual-track strategy, as they understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to reducing emissions. The company is investing in two complementary technologies: battery electric vehicles (BEV) and hydrogen fuel cell trucks. Daimler Truck believes that BEVs will play a critical role in urban and regional transportation, while hydrogen fuel cell trucks will be an ideal solution for long-haul and heavy-duty operations. By investing in both technologies, the company is ensuring that customers have access to the most suitable and sustainable vehicle for their needs.

eActros

Currently, Daimler Truck is already producing eight battery-electric truck and bus models in series worldwide. Hundreds of customers have already used these battery-electric trucks and buses to cover millions of kilometres. eActros The fully electric Mercedes-Benz eActros, designed for heavy-duty distribution haulage is already completely electrified and CO2-neutral tank-to-wheel.

With its advanced electric drivetrain, high-capacity battery system and Mercedes-Benz eAxle, the eActros is an ideal choice for customers who require a zeroemission vehicle for short and mediumhaul operations. The batteries of the eActros comprise either three (eActros 300) or four battery packs (eActros 400), each of which offers an installed capacity of 112 kWh. With four battery packs, the eActros 400 boasts a range of up to 400 kilometers. The technological centerpiece is the drive unit – an electric rigid axle eAxle with two integrated electric motors and a two-speed transmission.

eEconic

The eActros is also availalable as electric semitrailer tractor that is based on the same technology as the eActros 300/400. Three battery packs give eActros 300 Tractor a range of up to 220 km on a single battery charge. The battery packs need a little more than an hour to be charged from 20 to 80 per cent at a standard DC fast charging station.

In addition to its impressive range and performance, the eActros also features a range of advanced safety and driver assistance systems. These include latest generation of Active Brake Assist, Lane departure warning, and a range of other systems that provide drivers with a comprehensive view of their surroundings and increase vehicle and transport safety. eEconic – The fully-electric municipal service vehicle Another important member of our Zero Emission Vehicle family is the eEconic, which is a low-entry electric truck designed for waste collection and municipal services. The eEconic offers all the advantages of electric mobility, such as

local zero emissions and low noise, while also providing easy access for drivers and crew. With its low entry height and panoramic windscreen, the eEconic offers exceptional visibility and safety, making it the ideal choice for urban and suburban environments. The eEconic is also already in series production, and we’re confident that it will become a game-changer in the waste collection industry.

FUSO eCanter Since its launch in 2017, the FUSO eCanter has been considered a pioneer and frontrunner in electric trucks. There are now over 550 FUSO eCanter in customer operation in Europe, Japan and the United States, as well as in overseas markets. The total distance covered by the global eCanter fleet in all-electric and thus locally emission-free mode is now around eight million kilometers.

The Next Generation eCanter is now taking this success story to a new level.

The Next Generation eCanter lineup includes more than 40 variants to address the widest range of logistics needs. The

FUSO eCanter

All-electric Mercedes-Benz eCitaro In the guise of the fully battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, Daimler Buses has been offering a locally CO2-neutral city bus for environmentally friendly local public transport in cities and metro areas since 2018. With this vehicle, Daimler Truck aims to contribute to a successful mobility transition in passenger transport.

The Regional Centre of Daimler Truck - Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA is located in Dubai and was established in 2001 to be closer to its partners and customers. It supports more than 30 Mercedes-Benz and FUSO general distributors across the region in sales, marketing and customer services and parts functions. This allows customers to access reliable and sustainable transport solutions backed by superior after-sales service and world-class customer support.

The UAE’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is a major step forward in its effort to become the first MENA nation to do so. Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA (DCV MENA) is proud to support the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by providing sustainable and future-oriented transport solutions that meet the highest environmental standards. *3: The range is a practical figure based on in-house test results conducted with JE05 standards.

Mercedes-Benz eCitaro

FUELLING A GREENER FUTURE As the world continues to move towards a sustainable future, the UAE is taking a proactive approach to achieve their ambitious goals for better customer experience

Since its creation half a decade ago, ADNOC Distribution has pioneered the service station experience by investing in countless new offerings.

However, the journey is far from over and as a futurefocused company, ADNOC Distribution dreams big, standing at the forefront of change and sustainability, diversifying its offerings.

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he UAE has always been known for its opulence and grandeur.

With the country’s vast oil reserves, the gas station culture has been a crucial part of daily life in the UAE. However, with the world moving towards sustainable energy sources and the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, the face of gas stations in the UAE is changing.

The UAE government is taking a proactive approach to achieve their ambitious goal of transitioning to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions.

One of the significant steps taken by the government is the launch of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to increase the contribution of clean energy in the country’s total energy mix to 50 per cent by 2050. To achieve this, the UAE is focusing on investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and nuclear energy.

As part of this transition, the UAE is also reimagining its gas stations. Many new gas stations in the UAE are now being designed to incorporate sustainable practices. These gas stations are not just offering petrol and diesel; they are also

serving as a hub for renewable energy, providing EV charging stations, and promoting eco-friendly practices.

One of the innovative initiatives taken by the UAE’s gas stations is the installation of solar panels. These solar panels power the station’s electricity needs and provide surplus energy to the grid. This helps reduce the dependence on non-renewable sources of energy and promotes the use of renewable energy.

Another sustainable initiative taken by the UAE’s gas stations is the installation of EV charging stations. With the

increasing demand for electric vehicles, the UAE is providing more EV charging stations across the country. Many gas stations have now started offering EV charging services to attract environmentally conscious customers. The EV charging stations are powered by renewable energy sources like solar power, making them a greener alternative to traditional petrol stations.

Moreover, the gas stations in the UAE

One of the significant steps taken by the government is the launch of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to increase the contribution of clean energy in the country’s total energy mix to 50 per cent by 2050. To achieve this, the UAE is focusing on investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and nuclear energy.

are promoting eco-friendly practices like recycling, water conservation, and waste reduction. These practices are implemented by using sustainable materials for construction, reducing plastic usage, and implementing water-saving measures. Many gas stations in the UAE are now adopting green roofs, which helps reduce heat absorption and improve air quality.

In addition to this, the UAE’s gas stations are now becoming a one-stop-shop for convenience and sustainable practices. These gas stations are now offering sustainable products like reusable water bottles, eco-friendly snacks, and organic coffee. This shift towards sustainable practices not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also creates a more positive impact on the environment.

One company that has been playing its part in the march towards sustainability has been the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), which has catalysed the collective energy transformation drive. Since its creation half a decade ago, ADNOC Distribution has pioneered the service station experience by investing in countless new offerings. However, the journey is far from over and as a futurefocused company, ADNOC Distribution dreams big, standing at the forefront of change and sustainability, diversifying its offerings and responding to the demands of customers and shareholders alike.

Gas stations are starting to incorpo-

rate technology into their operations.

This can be seen in the use of mobile apps to pay for fuel, or in the use of AI to optimise the use of energy within the station. The growing use of smart devices is driving the adoption of cashless payments in petrol pumps. The options today include paying with debit/credit cards, digital wallets, as well as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags that deduct the amount from a registered account. These smart payment solutions are enabling people to manage their accounts from anywhere and anytime using smartphones or tablets. Enabling such payments demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to the Smart City initiative, and drives innovation and enhances customer experience.

Overall, the changing face of gas stations in the UAE is a reflection of the country’s commitment to sustainability.

By embracing alternative fuels, incorporating sustainable design elements, and incorporating technology into their operations, gas stations are playing a key role in helping the UAE reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

The changing face of gas stations in the UAE is a testament to the country’s commitment to sustainability. The UAE’s transition towards renewable energy and sustainability is not just limited to gas stations; it is being implemented in various sectors like transportation, construction, and manufacturing. The country’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is a challenging task, but the UAE’s innovative and sustainable initiatives are paving the way towards a greener future.

POWERING PROGRESS

Gas companies in the UAE forge a sustainable future, combating climate change and embracing renewable energy Anam Khan

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anam@khaleejtimes.com

ustainability has become an increasingly important aspect of business operations across various industries, and the gas sector in the UAE is no exception. As concerns about climate change and environmental impact grow, gas companies in the UAE are taking significant steps towards adopting sustainable practices, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting renewable energy sources.

Achieving Zero Flaring The UAE, being a major global player in the energy sector, recognises the importance of transitioning towards a more sustainable future. Gas companies in the UAE are actively embracing this transition by investing in sustainable technologies and initiatives that align with the nation’s vision for a greener economy.

The flaring of natural gas as a by-product of oil production wastes contributes to severe air pollution and GHG emissions.

The UAE has succeeded in reducing the flaring of natural gas from the oil and gas industry since the 1990s and its policy is shifting from minimal flaring to zero-tolerance.

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) group aims to eliminate routine flaring and reduced flaring by 76.4 per cent in 2013.

Within the ADNOC group, an offshore exploration and production (E&P) company has already achieved zero flaring at its Zakum oilfields for the first time.

Onshore, an ADNOC gas E&P company developed a flare management strategy for its Shah Gas Development Project, with the aim of minimising flaring from well-testing and clean-up operations.

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has accumulated knowledge on formulating policies and projects to reduce flaring and has been serving as a partner of the World Bank’s Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership since 2009.

To share its advanced experiences of flaring reduction, Abu Dhabi has been hosting the annual Flare Management and Reduction Summit since 2012.

Moreover, gas companies in the UAE are actively involved in research and development initiatives focused on sustainable technologies. They are collaborating with government agencies, research institutions, and industry partners to drive innovation in areas such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) technologies. These technologies play a vital role in capturing and storing carbon dioxide emissions, thereby mitigating their impact on the environment.

Furthermore, gas companies in the UAE are actively engaged in community outreach and awareness programmes.

They are educating the public about the importance of sustainability and the role of natural gas as a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels. The commitment of gas companies in the UAE to sustainability is also reflected in their corporate social responsibility initiatives. They are actively involved in supporting commu-

nity development projects, environmental conservation efforts, and initiatives that promote social welfare. By investing in these initiatives, gas companies are contributing to the overall well-being and sustainability of the communities in which they operate.

Furthermore, the UAE government has played a significant role in promoting sustainability in the gas sector. It has implemented policies and regulations that incentivise and encourage gas companies to adopt sustainable practices. These policies include renewable energy targets, carbon pricing mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks that promote energy efficiency and emissions reduction.

In 2022, ADNOC, Taqa and Mubadala entered a partnership to become shareholders of Masdar, to advance efforts to create a world-leading portfolio in clean energy. This strategic partnership will launch with over 23GW of current committed, and exclusive renewable energy capacity. It immediately positions Masdar as one of the largest clean energy companies globally, with the ambition to grow to well over 50 GW by 2030. Today, oil and gas exports account for only about 30 per cent of the UAE’s economic activity.

UAE 2050 Energy Goals The UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative – the first of any country in the Middle East – aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement and with the UAE’s development vision to create new knowledge along with green industries, skills and jobs.

As the first country in the region to deploy industrial-scale carbon capture technology, the UAE is pragmatic about the present because even in the swiftest energy transition scenario, the world will still need oil and gas for the near future.

The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 targets an energy mix that combines renewable, nuclear and clean energy sources to meet the UAE’s economic requirements and environmental goals as follows: • 44 per cent clean energy • 38 per cent gas • 12 per cent clean coal • 6 per cent nuclear Gas companies in the UAE are embracing sustainability as a fundamental aspect of their operations.

Through a combination of emission reduction, renewable energy adoption, research and development, community engagement, and government support, these companies are driving the transition towards a more sustainable and greener future.

FROM MILESTONES TO INNOVATIONS Empowering Adnoc Fueling Stations with cutting-edge technology and unmatched convenience, Gilbarco Vedeer-Root highlights its overall journey with Adnand the latest addition FutureReady Dispensers; Latitude

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ilbarco Veeder-Root has been successfully a part of Adnoc’s journey, where Gilbarco Veeder-Root Latitude dispensers and other forecourt automation solutions, can be seen through multiple Adnoc Fueling Stations across the UAE. Latitude dispensers follow a long tradition of innovation and enterprise that Gilbarco Veeder-Root has established for over 100 years. Engineered for efficiency and security, but designed for convenience; Latitude will exceed expectations at every step of the customer’s journey.

Its modern, uniform design has been carefully crafted to enable an engaging experience that drives forecourt traffic, fosters loyalty, and grows with the business.

“We set out to design a path-breaking

dispensing solution keeping in mind the future investments of our business partners,” said Allen Youssef, Head of Marketing - MEA. “The result of this thoughtful design process was the Latitude fuel dispenser.”

Here are some of the features that make Latitude dispensers the best solution for fuel stations with its unique design and new-age blueprint: • Powersafe Electronics that minimise dispenser breakdown.

• Tamper resistance.

• Easy View display to reassure consumers they’re getting exactly what they’ve paid for.

• Opti-flow hydraulics with improved suction performance.

• A lighted canopy that welcomes and directs customers to the next available fuelling position.

• Multimedia screen with a large display that delights customers and drives the upsell.

For more information on Latitude and to book a free consultation, please visit https://www.gilbarco.com/mea/our-solutions/fuel-dispensers/latitude, or get in touch through the following email: gvr-mea-marketing@gilbarco.com