Energy

Oil and Gas

The world will still need oil for many years to come. Eventually, our modern society will need less oil for transport and combustion, but the need to produce goods such as plastics, synthetic fabrics, asphalt, cosmetics and medicines will continue to increase. Some countries are beginning to demand that these products meet different standards for environmental protection. For many years, gas has been seen as a reliable and attractive energy source, and a more environmentally friendly alternative to coal. Natural gas now meets around 22% of the global energy demand. There are, however, fewer and fewer discoveries of new oil and gas fields. Areas where companies can search for these resources are becoming more challenging, and are often harsh and inaccessible. Searching for oil and gas requires professionals with interdisciplinary skills, who can come up with creative ideas and develop tailor-made and innovative solutions and better technologies.

Electricity

We are highly reliant on electricity in today’s world. Norway produces a great amount of electricity, mainly from regulated watercourses and waterfalls. Some of the electricity produced is exported to a number of European countries, such as Sweden and Germany. Norway therefore needs professionals with the skills needed to work on infrastructure for the production, transport and distribution of electricity.

Renewable Energy

There is an increasing focus on replacing non-renewable energy sources with renewables. Renewables harness energy from sources such as wind power, hydropower, bioenergy and solar energy. We need the necessary research and development, in order to make the most of these resources. Some of Norway’s current energy consumption comes from renewable energy. If Norway is to make the most of its use of sustainable energy, it must focus on further developing existing technology.

Climate and Environment

The climate and environment are high on the agenda in today’s society, and are both impacted by human behaviour. There are many new technological developments in this area, ranging from reducing emissions from vehicles, to increasing the amount of renewable energy, and making our current energy consumption more efficient. There are many opportunities for both small businesses and industry to create new technology and lead the way in climate- and environmentally-friendly development.

Energy and Energy Systems

If we are going to meet the increasing need for more energy, we need to develop newer and better energy systems. This will create employment and opportunities for those who can solve the challenges we face. New energy systems need to be more efficient and flexible, while ensuring supply is secure. Many systems in the future will be automated, using robots.

Industry Players

There are many big international players in this industry. Some of these have professional in-house IPR departments. At the same time, there are also a number of small and medium-sized companies, which are engaged in developing solutions for numerous challenges. Competition between these companies can be tough.

Why are intellectual property rights important?

Fierce competition among companies in this industry, together with the diverse challenges, mean that IPR is more important today than ever. The harsh, almost inaccessible areas where oil and gas can be found, and the demanding qualification tests which equipment has to undergo, call for creative solutions and improved technology. Protecting the intellectual property rights to new technology and new solutions is very important.

How can we help?

Several of our patent advisors at Bryn Aarflot hold a master’s or doctorate within the relevant energy industry areas. Our patent advisors have comprehensive experience of IPR and can offer a wide range of IPR services. We want our clients to have robust, enforceable IPR protection, and can help right from the ideas stage to securing necessary protection and further.