Promethean Energy at OTC 2025: Driving Innovation in Decommissioning and Sustainability

Promethean Energy was proud to participate in the 2025 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas, where thought leaders, innovators, and industry pioneers gathered to share insights and explore the future of offshore energy. Among the featured speakers was Steve Louis, SVP of Decommissioning at Promethean Energy, who delivered a compelling presentation on the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and decommissioning in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM).

George Foreman and HI A389: A Knockout Analogy

In a talk that was both engaging and insightful, Steve opened with a unique analogy comparing the legendary boxer George Foreman to offshore platforms after retirement. “Foreman earned far more after retiring from boxing than he did during his career,” Steve noted. “Similarly, HI A389, reefed in 2018, is now a thriving, biodiverse ecosystem providing enduring value well beyond its production life.”

By referencing the reefing of HI A389 , Steve demonstrated how decommissioned offshore infrastructure can be repurposed to deliver ecological benefits for generations to come. A video shared during the presentation showcased the vibrant marine life now surrounding the platform, emphasizing the potential of artificial reefs to support sustainability.

Watch the HI A389 Reefing Video

The Decommissioning Dilemma: Timing Is Everything

Steve highlighted the mounting decommissioning (decom) load in the GoM and the persistent challenge of timing. “When oil prices are high, resources are prioritized for production,” he explained. “When prices are low, capital is conserved and decom slows.” This cyclical issue creates a bottleneck in end-of-life asset management, underscoring the need for strategic innovation.

The Case for Innovation-Driven Sustainability

Steve emphasized that true progress lies in integrating retirement planning into the full asset lifecycle , enabling companies to embrace Sustainability-Oriented Innovations , solutions that generate above-average returns while delivering environmental, social, and long-term economic benefits.

He outlined a circular economy vision where decommissioning becomes a starting point, not an endpoint. This approach includes transformative opportunities such as:

• Reefing programs
• Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS)
• Flare gas and waste heat recovery
• Water recycling
• Smart grid technologies
• Biodegradable materials

Four Pillars of Decom Innovation

Steve categorized emerging decom innovations into four areas:

1. Digital & AI – Advanced analytics and predictive maintenance tools
2. Advanced Materials – Corrosion-resistant, sustainable materials
3. Multifunctional Tools – Equipment with dual-purpose capabilities
4. Sensing & Visualization – Enhanced data capture and modeling tech

These innovations, he argued, must be accompanied by a culture that is ready to receive them.

Adopting Technology Effectively

To accelerate progress, Steve encouraged the industry to:

1. Refine how we measure value
2. Improve receptivity to innovation
3. Eliminate bureaucratic “left turns.”
4. Collaborate across disciplines and organizations

“It’s not just about the tools we use, but the mindset we bring,” he emphasized.

A Call to Action: Building the Future Together

Steve closed his session with an inspiring message of unity and shared responsibility:

“Together, we can tackle the toughest challenges in offshore decommissioning and some of the biggest issues facing our world. By embracing sustainable innovation, we can create enduring value that lasts far beyond the life of any platform.”

Promethean Energy is honored to be part of this important conversation and remains committed to creating sustainable, forward-looking solutions for offshore energy.