Energy, natural resources and chemicals (ENRC) companies are accelerating their technology transformation efforts, with artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity emerging as the key drivers of growth and operational efficiency, according to KPMG’s Global Tech Report 2026.
The report, based on insights from 258 technology leaders across 22 countries, reveals that organizations are increasingly shifting from experimentation to scaled technology adoption. Data and analytics (47%), cybersecurity (42%) and AI (41%) are the top areas where technology strategies are funded and progressing toward large-scale implementation.
AI adoption is gaining momentum across the sector, with 69% of executives identifying it as a priority investment area. Notably, only 29% of organizations remain in the pilot stage today, a figure expected to decline to just 2% over the next year as companies embed AI across operations and business functions.
The report also highlights the growing importance of data quality and governance. About 42% of leaders cited improving data flows as critical to enhancing decision-making agility, while nearly three-quarters acknowledged that prioritizing speed and cost efficiency can sometimes compromise security, scalability and data standards.
“Energy companies are continuing their digital transformation journeys with a strong focus on data, analytics, AI and modernization of core operational systems. The challenge now is to move from pilots to enterprise-scale deployments and unlock the full value of technology investments,” said Anish De, Global Head of Energy, Natural Resources and Chemicals, KPMG International.
Cybersecurity remains a top priority, with 36% of executives identifying improved cybersecurity management as the most significant benefit expected from achieving their technology ambitions. The report further notes growing interest in emerging technologies such as edge computing, digital twins, quantum computing and XaaS models as organizations prepare for the next phase of transformation.
The findings suggest that while technology investments are beginning to generate measurable returns, organizations that combine strong data foundations, governance frameworks and workforce readiness will be best positioned to realize long-term value in the evolving Intelligence Age.
