The National Oil Corporation (NOC) participated in the World Geothermal Congress (WGC) 2026, held from 7–12 June 2026 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The event brought together geothermal developers, energy companies, technology providers, researchers, investors, and government representatives from around the world.
NOC attended the congress as an exhibitor and operated a booth from 7–11 June 2026. The exhibition provided an opportunity to present the country’s geothermal and petroleum exploration potential and engage with companies interested in energy development projects.
During the congress, NOC held discussions with a number of international companies involved in exploration, drilling, subsurface studies, reservoir management, and geophysical services. These engagements focused on possible areas of cooperation in geothermal development, petroleum exploration, natural gas development, and related technical services.
One of the notable meetings was with Sinopec’s representatives, led by the Managing Director and President, Mr. Fan Chuanhong. Both parties expressed interest in partnering and reviewing opportunities related to Block T11 and natural gas prospects in Block A3. Discussions also covered the possibility of future collaboration, subject to Sinopec’s internal evaluation processes.
The congress highlighted several developments currently shaping the geothermal sector. Technical sessions focused on the growing use of digital tools in subsurface studies, reservoir modelling, drilling operations, and data interpretation. Presentations also demonstrated how experience and technologies developed in the oil and gas industry are being applied to geothermal projects.
NOC also met with companies offering services in geomechanical modelling, reservoir simulation, geophysical surveys, seismic acquisition, and drilling technologies. These discussions provided useful information on technologies that may support future exploration and development activities in both geothermal and petroleum projects.
In addition to business meetings, the congress offered an opportunity to observe current industry practices and developments in geothermal exploration and resource assessment. Particular attention was given to advances in drilling methods, subsurface imaging, and reservoir characterization, which are important for reducing exploration risk and improving project planning.
Participation in WGC 2026 enabled NOC to present its activities to an international audience, gather technical information relevant to its operations, and establish contacts with companies and organizations active in the energy sector. The discussions and information obtained during the congress will support ongoing evaluations of future exploration, development, and technical collaboration opportunities.