On 14-16 October, AUTOMA 2024, hosted by Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland, brought together industry leaders in Düsseldorf, Germany, for 3 days of insights, networking and innovation. The event fostered meaningful discussions on the latest challenges, trends and advancements in oil and gas automation and digitalisation.

Leading Industry Figures

This year’s AUTOMA Congress welcomed 350+ delegates and representatives from 190+ companies who gathered to share expertise, discover industry advancements and connect with key players across the oil and gas value chain. Among the top oil & gas industry players attending the Congress were our Host Sponsor - Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland and our Regional partners: Gizil GmbH, CEPSA, Thyssengas GmbH, MOL Group and Italgas S.p.A.

“AUTOMA is a unique platform, bringing together over 300 experts from across the oil and gas industry, including representatives from refineries, pipeline operators, EPC contractors, service providers, equipment manufacturers as well as startups” - Thomas Ludwig (Technology Manager at Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland)

AUTOMA 2024 Business Programme: Innovative Solutions for Growth

The business programme at AUTOMA 2024 addressed the sector’s current challenges and opportunities, with 64 expert speakers focusing on innovative solutions that are helping to shape the future of oil and gas. Key themes included digital transformation, AI-driven innovation, carbon neutrality, predictive maintenance and digital asset management. These discussions highlighted how collaboration, data optimisation, and new technologies are driving operational excellence, sustainability and resilience across the industry.

“Why am I, as a digital innovation leader at Shell, excited about the potential of digital innovations? It’s because not only do we, but also the World Economic Forum, recognise the potential for digital solutions to reduce global emissions by up to 20%. But really not by itself, but by bringing the right partnerships together and by doing it at scale. And this is why I think congresses like this are bringing us together to touch on the right topics of how we can enable each other to go on this journey, which is really a team sport, are the right place to start” - Karina Fernandez (General Manager, Emerging Digital Technologies at Shell)

The second day featured a Workshop led by Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland in partnership with Energy Robotics and coac GmbH. 

The first workshop focused on "360° Automated Inspections from the Ground and the Air". Attendees witnessed a live demonstration of cutting-edge robots and drones, showcasing their capabilities in conducting comprehensive inspections efficiently and safely. 

The second workshop delved into Shell's experience in implementing an AI-powered inspection management system and its benefits in optimising operations and enhancing safety.

Networking and B2B Meetings

Networking was a key component of AUTOMA 2024, with 265 B2B meetings held during the event. Attendees benefited from the assistance of personal managers, ensuring seamless connection with potential partners and customers.

Breakthrough Innovations Highlighted at the Focus Exhibition

Focus Exhibition and special Tech Zone featured 50 stands, showcasing the latest technologies and solutions in the oil and gas industry. Attendees had access to a range of innovations, including robotics, 3D modelling, CAD, BIM, Digital Twins, Mobile Devices, VR tools and more.

An Evening of Networking: The AUTOMA 2024 Gala Dinner

This year, the AUTOMA 2024 Gala Dinner took place in the atmospheric Kasino Leverkusen. The combination of historical tradition and modern setting, a delicious meal, jazz music and a relaxed ambiance enhanced the networking process and created a truly remarkable experience. A traditional BGS lottery with coveted prizes and exciting gifts from the AUTOMA main sponsors added a touch of fun. For instance, our Host Sponsor, Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland, gave away a DGI Mini 4K Drone. Many thanks to all the participants of the lottery and congratulations to all the lucky winners!

Day 3: Unveiling the Future of Industry at Shell and Henkel

The final day of AUTOMA 2024 provided attendees with an exclusive tour to the facilities of Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland and Henkel AG & Co. KGaA.

At Shell, participants embarked on a guided tour of the Wesseling site, witnessing firsthand the company's commitment to a sustainable future. Highlights included the groundbreaking Refhyne I green hydrogen electrolysis project and the exploration of bio-LNG production, showcasing Shell's innovative approach to energy transition.

Henkel's global headquarters in Düsseldorf offered an immersive experience into the world of adhesive technologies. The Inspiration Center provided a glimpse into cutting-edge innovations and their applications across various industries. Additionally, attendees learned how Henkel's predictive maintenance strategies optimise production efficiency.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our Host Sponsor, Shell Energy & Chemicals Park Rheinland, for their incredible support. We also thank our Principal Sponsor Tata Consultancy Services and Henkel AG & Co. KGaA for sponsoring Day 3 and providing attendees with a behind-the-scenes look at their innovation-driven facilities. Additionally, a big thank you to all our sponsors, delegates, exhibitors, speakers and partners for making AUTOMA 2024 a success.

We look forward to welcoming the community back to the next edition of the Congress on 13-14 October in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Request a brochure