Enabling the Energy Transition: Policy-Driven Edge Computing Innovations for Sustainable Oil and Gas Sector Management
摘要
While moving towards the development of low-carbon energy systems, oil and natural gas remain one of the significant sources for energy supply globally. Digital transformation, particularly through edge computing, enhances operational efficiency, safety, and environmental performance by enabling real-time analytics and predictive decision-making. This study reviews the existing literature on the topic and analyses the development of edge computing and other digital innovations in the oil and gas industry between 2000 and 2025. The study employs PRISMA through the Scopus and Web of Science databases, as well as VOSviewer software, to visualise collaboration networks, co-occurring keywords, and topics. Four key domains of investigation will be identified: (1) edge-based digital twins & cyber-physical systems; (2) industrial internet of things and predictive asset intelligence; (3) analytics for informed decision-making and governance; (4) cybersecurity, ESG, and sustainable digital governance. Still, it requires alignment with sustainability metrics and regulatory frameworks. Overall, there are three primary challenges, namely, cybersecurity issues, limited interoperability, and the failure to incorporate digital innovation in Environmental, Social, and Governance objectives. The study proposes an integrated and policy-oriented framework that links edge computing architectures to sustainable performance targets, policy governance, and scalability of digital innovation. The study will provide practical recommendations to energy firms, policymakers, and regulatory bodies, particularly in developing countries. The study contributes to sustainability and process integration research by linking digital transformation with ESG performance, emissions reduction, and system-level optimisation in energy-intensive operations.