LNG, hydrogen, carbon reduction, and AI emerge as key themes amid energy transition challenges
Industry leaders stress balancing sustainability, energy security, and economic viability
As the global energy industry undergoes a rapid transformation, leading companies from across the energy, technology, and aviation sectors gathered in Seoul to discuss future growth opportunities and long-term survival strategies. Industry leaders emphasized that collaboration across sectors is becoming increasingly important amid supply chain disruptions, carbon neutrality goals, and the accelerating adoption of artificial intelligence (AI).
Samsung E&A announced on July 2 that it hosted the Samsung E&A Tech Forum at its Global Engineering Center (GEC) in Seoul. The event attracted approximately 600 participants from domestic and international companies, institutions, and industry organizations.
The forum brought together a diverse lineup of global corporations, including ExxonMobil, ADNOC, Petronas, and Boeing. AI data analytics company Palantir also participated, presenting real-world applications of AI technologies in industrial operations.
A central theme of this year’s forum was the concept of a “practical energy transition.” While industry stakeholders broadly support the expansion of clean energy, many acknowledged that existing fossil fuel systems will continue to play a critical role in ensuring energy security and economic stability amid geopolitical uncertainty and ongoing supply chain challenges.
Discussions focused on liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, carbon reduction technologies, and AI-driven operational innovation. Participants agreed that the energy sector is entering a new phase in which sustainability must be pursued alongside affordability and reliability.
Samsung E&A used the forum to showcase its hydrogen production technologies based on water electrolysis and a range of environmentally friendly energy solutions. Particular attention was given to the company's collaboration with Norwegian hydrogen specialist Nel ASA on electrolysis technologies designed to support the production of clean hydrogen.
The company is also expanding its presence in emerging energy markets, including e-methanol and low-carbon ammonia, as part of its broader strategy to diversify beyond traditional engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services.
AI-driven innovation in industrial facilities was another major topic. Panelists highlighted the growing role of AI in improving plant efficiency, optimizing maintenance schedules, reducing operating costs, and enhancing workplace safety. Many participants viewed AI as a key enabler of next-generation industrial competitiveness.
A separate exhibition area featured technologies related to LNG, carbon capture and storage (CCS), robotics, and smart safety systems. Global companies including Air Liquide and Carbon Clean presented low-carbon technologies aimed at supporting industrial decarbonization efforts.
Industry observers noted that Samsung E&A is rapidly evolving beyond its traditional EPC business model by expanding into future energy solutions and digital technologies. The company has increasingly positioned itself at the intersection of energy transition, industrial innovation, and digital transformation.
“Today's forum provided a meaningful opportunity to discuss the future direction of technological innovation and sustainability in the energy industry,” said Hong Namkoong, President and CEO of Samsung E&A. “We will continue to strengthen global partnerships and proactively respond to changes in the future energy market.”
