United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: The Middle East is emerging as a frontrunner in the global transition toward autonomous energy operations, with nearly 80 % of regional energy leaders reporting advanced readiness, according to new research from Schneider Electric.
The study reveals that many organisations in the region have reached Level 4 on the ARC Autonomous Operations Maturity Model – a stage defined by selective autonomy, where systems function independently in specific scenarios with minimal human input. Globally, most energy sectors still operate at Levels 1 or 2, which rely heavily on manual oversight.
Autonomous systems are seen as key to improving operational efficiency, safety, and cost performance. In the UAE, 58 % of respondents expect to achieve full Level 5 autonomy within five years. Cost optimisation was cited as the leading motivation, while safety and compliance were secondary factors – signalling a shift toward performance-driven innovation.
“Autonomous operations are a strategic enabler across the energy sector,” said Devan Pillay, President Heavy Industries at Schneider Electric. “They enhance resilience and enable real-time, data-driven decision-making while reducing human exposure to risk.”
For the switchgear and substation segment, this growing autonomy translates into increased integration of digital twins, advanced sensors, and AI-driven control systems. Intelligent switchgear and condition-based monitoring are becoming central to ensuring self-healing grids and remote reconfiguration capabilities.
Schneider Electric’s collaboration with Adnoc Refining demonstrates these principles in action, using its EcoStruxure platform to enable autonomous plant operations in Abu Dhabi – reducing emissions, improving reliability, and setting a new benchmark for digitalised infrastructure in the region.
Source: Zawya
