Global Project Management for Energy Transition: Lessons from Europe and the Americas - Poornima Sharma
As the energy sector pivots toward sustainability, the execution of large-scale projects across diverse geographies presents unique challenges — and unparalleled opportunities. In my role as Vice President of Operations for the Americas and Europe, I oversee projects that navigate the complexities of two dynamic yet distinct regions. Managing such projects is not just about achieving technical milestones; it’s also about harmonizing disparate stakeholders, understanding regulatory frameworks, and achieving outcomes that satisfy local and global objectives.
A pivotal insight from my experience is the necessity of aligning stakeholders, particularly in the context of sustainable fuels and chemicals. Energy Transition projects often require a collaboration between the company that made the scientific technology development and demonstrated the challenging chemistry behind the sustainable product — the Client, and a company with industrial experience to execute a project for commercialization of the product- the EPC contractor. Bridging the cultural differences that result from such a partnership of diverse experiences is crucial for the success of projects in sustainable fuels and chemicals, and often of greater importance than project execution for large, well-established national and international petrochemical and refining companies. Maintaining open lines of communication and establishing a shared vision is essential to ensuring that all stakeholders feel valued and committed to the project’s success.
Furthermore, sustainable fuels and chemicals projects face challenging business cases that require a laser-like focus on capital deployment and accelerated project execution timelines to be early to market and gain a competitive edge. For the EPC contractors, a full and deep understanding and timely acceptance of the Client’s objectives is another cornerstone for effective project management.
Capital deployment required in many commercial-scale sustainable fuels and chemicals projects is starting to exceed $ 1 Billion. The economic viability of these projects is dependent on several factors including regulatory environment, government incentives, feedstock availability, access to source of green and low-cost power, cost of construction, and skilled labor, in addition to expertise in project management. Driving execution at this scale also demands a nuanced understanding of regional practices. Having worked and lived internationally, it has equipped me to appreciate these variances. By customizing our strategies to each region, we’ve been able to foster stronger partnerships and smooth execution.
Engineering and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) projects in the energy transition space, require a blend of technical excellence and cultural sensitivity. Whether it is assembling engineering teams from multiple continents or negotiating contracts with clients who have differing priorities, I have learned that success lies in balancing local realities with global objectives.
The energy transition is a worldwide challenge that demands global solutions. My experience across Europe, the Americas, and beyond has taught me that sustainable project execution is as much about collaboration and adaptability as it is about technology. Together, we can build a future that not only meets our energy needs but does so responsibly, equitably, and sustainably.
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Poornima Sharma is a mission-driven leader in the Oil & Gas sector with over 35 years of experience. She excels in turning innovative ideas into sustainable businesses, focusing on process technologies and stakeholder alignment. Poornima is committed to advancing energy transition by commercializing clean technologies and positioning organizations for a sustainable future through effective project execution.
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