Borouge Plc has announced the completion of a proof of concept for AI-powered autonomous operations at its Ruwais production facility, developed in partnership with Honeywell. The milestone forms part of the company’s broader AI, Digitalisation & Technology (AIDT) programme, which aims to generate $575 million in value during 2025.
The autonomous operations system, tested in a live production environment, demonstrated potential efficiency gains of up to 20%, a 20% reduction in downtime, and up to 15% lower operating costs. The technology also contributes to process safety and sustainability goals by lowering energy consumption and reducing emissions.
The initiative supports Borouge’s strategy to enhance operational performance and long-term competitiveness, while aligning with ADNOC’s ambition to become the world’s most AI-enabled energy company.
“This milestone reinforces Borouge’s commitment to accelerating growth, enhancing shareholder value, and driving efficiency,” said Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chief Executive Officer of Borouge. “By advancing autonomous operations in partnership with Honeywell, we are strengthening our competitive position, supporting ADNOC’s ambition to become the world’s most AI-enabled energy company.”
According to Borouge, the project marks significant progress toward developing what is expected to be the petrochemical industry’s first AI-driven control room for full-scale, real-time operations.
Jim Masso, President and CEO of Honeywell Process Automation, stated: “Our collaboration with Borouge demonstrates how AI-enabled autonomous operations can be deployed safely and effectively in a live production environment. This milestone highlights the potential of advanced connected solutions to deliver meaningful improvements in efficiency, reliability and operational performance at scale.”
Borouge will now assess further opportunities to expand the use of autonomous technologies across its Ruwais facilities, based on the results of the proof of concept.