Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the natural gas industry, driving improvements in safety, efficiency, workforce management, and compliance. AI-powered tools enhance real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, leak detection, cybersecurity, and emergency preparedness, allowing gas utilities to mitigate risk, optimize operations, and strengthen regulatory compliance.
However, many utilities struggle to move AI from concept to execution. A structured, rapid prototyping approach allows organizations to quickly test AI use cases, integrate functional expertise, and effectively scale proven solutions.
This article highlights practical AI applications across operations, maintenance, cybersecurity, workforce management, and transport, helping operational, technology, and safety leaders prioritize and implement high-impact AI solutions.
AI Use Cases in Natural Gas
Operations & Maintenance
AI enables predictive monitoring, real-time risk detection, and optimized maintenance scheduling.
Engineering, Design, and Construction
AI enhances pipeline routing, asset placement, and regulatory risk modeling.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management
AI enhances threat detection, regulatory compliance, and OT security.
Safety and Workforce Development
AI improves field training, operator qualification (OQ) certification, real-time safety monitoring, and emergency response.
Transport
AI optimizes pipeline efficiency, LNG operations, and emissions reduction.
From Concept to Execution: AI Adoption for Natural Gas Utilities
AI adoption in natural gas operations requires a structured, phased approach that combines operational expertise with rapid prototyping.
- Prioritize AI Use Cases – Focus on high-value applications in operations, maintenance, and safety
- Use Rapid Prototyping – Leverage synthetic data to quickly test AI models in controlled environments
- Parallel Data Readiness Efforts – Assess and refine real-world operational data while AI pilots progress
- Scale Proven Solutions – Expand AI applications across assets, field teams, and control centers
How ScottMadden Can Help
ScottMadden helps natural gas utilities develop AI strategies, deploy rapid prototypes, and scale AI-driven solutions.
- Use Case Identification and Prioritization
- Business Case Creation and ROI Analysis
- AI Strategy and Roadmap Development
- Pilot Testing and Implementation
- Workforce Enablement and Training Modernization
Let’s connect to move AI from exploration to execution.
Conrad Chen, Matthew Thompson, and Alex Tylecote also contributed to this article.
