The energy services sector, including fossil fuel and renewable companies, relies on skilled workers for demanding extraction, production, and supply tasks. However, the industry faces significant challenges. Complex operations, remote job sites, and constant safety risks are all part of the mix. To address these challenges, energy leaders are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) more and more, specifically computer vision technology. They’re using it to become safer, more efficient, and more productive.

How computer vision works in energy services

Computer vision involves training machines to interpret and analyze visual information, just as humans do. In energy services, computer vision technology is transforming operations. Specifically, its being used for key tasks like these:

  • Real-time site safety monitoring: AI-powered cameras detect unsafe behaviors in real time, alerting supervisors whenever an incident occurs so they can send help right away.
  • Equipment security: Remote energy sites are prone to theft and unauthorized access. AI-powered surveillance systems can monitor valuable equipment round-the-clock, reducing theft risks and preventing delays caused by missing assets.
  • Compliance enforcement: Automated computer vision systems help ensure workers follow safety protocols, reducing accidents and enforcing safety rules.
Unlock the Power of Computer Vision with Motive’s 2025 Guide

Motive’s Physical Economy Outlook 2024: AI’s role in energy services

Motive surveyed 1,000 leaders for the Physical Economy Outlook 2024 and found that many in the energy sector are betting on AI to transform their operations.

  • 72% of energy leaders believe AI is critical for preventing accidents and coaching workers.
  • 40% say AI helps improve worker safety.
  • 32% find AI useful for predicting vehicle and equipment maintenance needs.

These insights show how important AI, particularly computer vision, has become to energy services businesses.

Motive has sped up all our processes and given us insight into issues as they arise. Since onboarding Motive, our processes are faster, smarter, and completely automated. Motive has made us more efficient, helped us make better use of our time and equipment, and saved us money.

— Jayme Borgstrom, DOT Manager at STEP Energy Services

Enhancing compliance and equipment performance

In energy services, computer vision helps improve safety, efficiency, and quality assurance. Here are some ways it’s making the biggest impact:

  • Equipment performance monitoring: AI-powered cameras track the use and condition of heavy machinery flagging issues early to allow for preventive maintenance, reducing costly downtime.
  • Quality assurance: For energy service providers, computer vision can identify defects and irregularities in real time. As a result, businesses can address problems as they arise, and minor issues won’t become costly failures.

The future of computer vision in energy services

The potential of computer vision in energy services is vast. Predictive models are already being developed to forecast equipment failures before they occur, leading to timely maintenance and fewer accidents. AI can also help energy companies optimize workflows, reduce waste, and increase production.

With these advancements, computer vision is set to revolutionize the energy services industry. Along the way, it will protect workers in real time and lead to more timely decision making.

Conclusion

The time to adopt computer vision in energy operations is now. With the right AI-powered tools, you can improve safety, boost productivity, and reduce costs. Start integrating computer vision solutions today to stay ahead of industry challenges. Download Motive’s 2025 Computer Vision Guide to see how this technology can transform your operations.