NOCs to Drive Over 60% of Global Energy Investments by 2026

Leveraging advanced tech and sustainability to shape the future of energy, agriculture, and infrastructure

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

National Oil Companies (NOCs), NOC oil, and C-NOCs are set to account for over 60% of global energy investments by 2026, prioritizing technology, cleaner extraction, and sustainable practices to address emerging challenges across energy, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors. These state-owned entities are pivotal players in driving economic growth, resource management, and environmental stewardship worldwide.

Why it matters

As the world faces increasing complexities around energy security, resource management, agricultural productivity, and infrastructure expansion, understanding the evolving importance and strategic roles of NOCs, NOC oil, and C-NOCs provides critical insight into balancing urgent development needs with environmental stewardship. These entities are leveraging advanced digital technologies, sustainable extraction methods, and innovative management solutions to shape the future of global energy and resource landscape.

The details

NOCs will drive over 60% of new global energy investments by 2026, prioritizing technology for sustainable growth. NOCs are not just commercial entities, but strategic instruments of national policy, with profound influence across agriculture, infrastructure, defense, and broader industrial growth. NOC oil operations are the bedrock upon which energy security, economic resilience, and sectoral development are built, particularly in regions such as the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Africa. C-NOC, China's flagship offshore oil and gas company, remains central to Asia-Pacific's energy, infrastructure, and strategic development, integrating advanced digital solutions and sustainable practices into its operations.

  • By 2025, C-NOCs are expected to manage infrastructure projects across 40+ countries, integrating advanced digital solutions for efficiency.
  • 2025-2026: Several NOCs lead national net-zero targets with large-scale sustainable initiatives.

The players

Saudi Aramco

The world's largest and most profitable oil company, a linchpin in the global energy markets.

Petronas

Plays a strategic regional role in Southeast Asia's energy sector.

CNOOC (China National Offshore Oil Corporation)

China's offshore oil and gas giant, crucial for Asia-Pacific energy resilience.

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The takeaway

NOCs, NOC oil, and C-NOCs are not only driving the global energy landscape, but also shaping the future of agriculture, infrastructure, and broader industrial development through their strategic investments in sustainable technologies, digital innovation, and environmental stewardship.