Company: NAGPD - Saudi Aramco, Khursaniya, Saudi Arabia
Company Description: Northern Area Gas Producing Department (NAGPD) is a department from Saudi Aramco and the department is producing non-associated gas in onshore and offshore fields.
Nomination Category: Sustainability Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Sustainability Service of the Year - in the Middle East and Africa
 Nomination Title: NAGPD's Progressive Step Towards the 2050 Net Zero Emission
- Which will you submit for your nomination in this category, a video of up to five (5) minutes in length about the achievements of the nominated organization since 1 January 2022, OR written answers to the questions for this category? (Choose one):
Written answers to the questions
- If you are submitting a video of up to five (5) minutes in length, provide the URL of the nominated video here, OR attach it to your entry via the "Add Attachments, Videos, or Links to This Entry" link above, through which you may also upload a copy of your video.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this first question: Briefly describe the nominated organization: its history and past performance (up to 200 words):
Total 105 words used.
Gas fields under NAGPD’s purview—Karan, Arabia, and Hasbah (offshore), along with Khursaniya (onshore)—were traditionally equipped with wellheads, tie-in platforms, and flare systems. These systems were designed to flare off excess gas continuously, a practice that, while ensuring safety, had considerable environmental ramifications. In the quest for sustainable energy practices, the Northern Area Gas Producing Department (NAGPD) stands out as a beacon of innovation and commitment. Their recent landmark initiative—transitioning from continuous flare systems to maintenance flares—sets a precedent not only for Aramco but for the entire global energy sector. This article delves into the significance of this achievement and its implications for a greener future.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this second question: Outline the organization's achievements since the beginning of 2022 that you wish to bring to the judges' attention (up to 250 words):
Total 121 words used.
With the global emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and Aramco's pledge for net-zero emissions by 2050, NAGPD recognized an opportunity to revamp its operations. An in-depth review of their facility operation philosophy and process safety led to a pivotal decision: the conversion of continuous flare systems at tie-in platforms to maintenance flares. Central to this decision were the protection layers in place at NAGPD’s facilities. While the original design incorporated an eso system, hips system, and mechanical relief valves for safety, a 2016 revision in the HIPS standard emerged as a game-changer. The revised standard emphasized that HIPS alone could effectively counter overpressure risks. This prompted NAGPD to engage third-party experts, whose studies corroborated that continuous flaring was no longer essential.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this third question: Explain why the achievements you have highlighted are unique or significant. If possible compare the achievements to the performance of other players in your industry and/or to the organization's past performance (up to 250 words):
Total 75 words used.
NAGPD’s initiative has had significant environmental implications. By curtailing continuous flaring, they prevent the emission of approximately 13,000 metric tons of CO2 annually. This contribution to the environment is equivalent to the absorption capabilities of nearly 1.8 million native trees on an annual basis. Moreover, the financial aspects of this transition are equally compelling. With modest initial investments, NAGPD’s initiative promises substantial life cycle cost savings—from gas value creation to reduced maintenance expenses.
- You have the option to answer this final question: Reference any attachments of supporting materials throughout this nomination and how they provide evidence of the claims you have made in this nomination (up to 250 words):
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