CERAWeek splits between innovation and oil-first reality

Away from the main halls of CERAWeek, where ministers and oil executives debate geopolitics and markets, a different vision of the energy sector is on display.

Across a skybridge from the Hilton Americas, the conference’s “Agora” – billed as a marketplace for ideas – has become a hub for discussions on energy transition, sustainability and emerging technologies.

Major energy and technology companies have established a strong presence, including Saudi Aramco, highlighting the industry’s growing focus on innovation.

Speaking on a panel on capital and innovation, Ammar Al Nahwi, director of corporate innovation management at Aramco, said Saudi Arabia was leading a “rush” of investment into energy transition, sustainability and artificial intelligence.

Outside the conference, a small but vocal group of protesters gathered in Discovery Green, criticising the role of major oil companies. Demonstrators chanted against fossil fuel wealth and singled out Chevron chief Mike Wirth as a symbol of the industry.

The protests remained peaceful, with a visible police presence separating activists from conference attendees.

Inside, however, the tone was markedly different. US interior secretary Doug Burgum struck a confident note, pointing to America’s energy strength, while officials and executives alike emphasised that hydrocarbons would remain central to meeting rising global demand.

The preferred term here is not “energy transition” but “energy addition”.

That contrast between innovation, protest and policy reflects a broader reality: even as new energy technologies gain momentum, Houston remains firmly anchored in the world of oil and gas.

Watch Frank Kane’s final video round-up of CERAWeek above

Further reading:

• CERAWeek mood turns against Iran conflict
• CERAWeek panellists deliver stark warning on Iran