How Do R&D Programs Funded by the DG XII (Science, Research and Development Directorate) of the European Commission Impact the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry in Europe?

How Do R&D Programs Funded by the DG XII (Science, Research and Development Directorate) of the European Commission Impact the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry in Europe? — This paper provides an overview of the direct and indirect impact which DG XII funding for research and development has on the oil and gas exploration and production industry in Europe. Despite the relatively low level of funding, the impact is quite significant. These impacts are presented using a bottom-up analysis, starting with the impact of technology on industry and society, the impact of research on technology, and the impact of DG XII funding on both research and technology for the exploration and production of oil and gas. The different aspects that are discussed include the direct impact, the impact on R&D organization and management, and the impact due to the Commission demonstration program for oil and gas (Thermie). Examples are provided from current and past project results. The future impact on the industry, and Commission policy toward the oil and gas sector are suggested. In the near future, it is expected that there will be greater impact on production technologies, on the contribution of oil and gas companies to long-term R&D, and on the transfer of results to the Commission demonstration program.