A Proposed Five-Year Strategic Research Framework (2026-2031) for a Petroleum Research Center: An Integrated Approach for Sustainability and Value Maximization

Nagi .H.Ali; Abdelsalam Abuzreda

doi:10.58916/jhas.v11i5.1261

Authors

Nagi .H.Ali Chairman of the board of directors petroleum research center,and Research doctor, Senior Advisor at Arabian Gulf Oil Company (AGOCO) Author
Abdelsalam Abuzreda Associate Professor & Postdoctoral Research fellow, Senior Advisor Department of Health Safety and Environmental (HSE), Arabian Gulf Oil Company (AGOCO) and University of Benghazi, and the higher Institute of Engineering Techniques Benghazi, Libya Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58916/jhas.v11i5.1261

Keywords:

Oil Research Strategy, Five-Year Plan, Sustainability, Enhanced Oil Recovery, Carbon Capture, Human Capital Development, SWOT Analysis, Analytical Hierarchy Process

Abstract

The global energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the dual challenges of meeting energy demand and achieving climate goals. Petroleum Research Centers (P R C) are pivotal in navigating this transition by fostering innovation and technological advancement. This paper proposes a comprehensive five-year strategic research framework (2026-2031) to guide a NORC towards enhanced operational efficiency, environmental stewardship, and local capacity building.

Methods: The proposed strategy was developed through a multi-phase methodology. A comprehensive literature review and SWOT analysis identified key global trends and local capabilities. A Delphi method with 35 industry experts was employed to prioritize research areas. Quantitative data from national oil production fields and environmental reports were analyzed to establish baseline Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Statistical analyses, including Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) for prioritization and regression analysis for forecasting, were used to validate the strategic pillars and set measurable targets.

Results: The study culminated in a five-pillar strategic framework: 1) Exploration & Assessment, 2) Production Optimization, 3) Technology & Development, 4) Sustainability & Environment, and 5) Human Capital Development. Each pillar is supported by specific, measurable objectives and KPIs. Statistical analysis, including a prioritized ranking of technologies (AHP Consistency Ratio: 0.08) and projected outcomes (R² > 0.95 for production increase models), confirms the framework's robustness. The strategy forecasts a 15% increase in recovery factor from mature fields, a 25% reduction in freshwater usage, and the training of over 500 national researchers by 2031.

Conclusion: This integrated five-year strategic framework provides a viable and data-driven roadmap for a NORC. By simultaneously addressing technical efficiency, environmental sustainability, and human capital, the strategy ensures the center's relevance and contribution to both the national economy and global energy transition efforts. Successful implementation requires sustained investment, cross-sector collaboration, and continuous monitoring.