In this interview, Max discusses his recent appointment as Chair of the SPE Net Zero Group, outlines his key goals for the committee, and shares how you can get involved in supporting and contributing to the group’s initiatives.
Max, can you explain the purpose of the SPE Net Zero group? Why was it created?
The SPE Net Zero group was established within the London section of the SP wider committee around 2019 or 2020. Its objective is to promote and educate our membership base about the energy transition, particularly in relation to net zero. We aim to leverage our skills and experience to tackle key challenges, such as decarbonizing oil and gas.
Additionally, we focus on retraining our skills for applications like carbon capture and storage, geothermal energy, and other relevant areas.
How do the skills gained in the petroleum industry contribute to achieving net zero goals?
Some of the key skill sets in reservoir engineering and geology, which are unique to our industry, can be effectively applied in areas like carbon capture and storage. Geological skills used in the appraisal and characterization of reservoirs are essential in these fields. Similarly, complex reservoir and production engineering skills—unique to our industry—are crucial for managing fluids, injecting, and monitoring CO2 in the subsurface.
These skills are fundamental for developing and managing both carbon capture and storage projects, as well as geothermal projects. Essentially, it’s about using the same skill set, but with a different workflow.
Why were you chosen as Chair of the SPE Net Zero group?
I’ve been fortunate to be involved in the SPE Net Zero committee for about three years and have participated in some of our major initiatives. I’ve also had the opportunity to contribute to some very successful talks we’ve hosted, such as those on geochemistry and CCS (carbon capture and storage), which are fascinating topics. I’ve always been an active member, thoroughly enjoying the events we’ve organized for the broader community. I’m passionate about giving back to the community and my colleagues, which is why I was appointed as Chair.
What are your main objectives as Chair?
On the agenda, we plan to reinvigorate the society with new energy and enthusiasm. We’re organizing a roundtable discussion to review our membership and understand their objectives—what they want to learn about. Based on this, we’ll refocus our plans for 2025. This could involve talks, events, conferences, the possibilities are endless. The goal is to breathe new life into the committee, refocus our efforts, and ultimately serve our membership base better.
What benefits will these initiatives offer to members?
We aim to educate our members on key topics, which could, in turn, generate enthusiasm and interest. This enthusiasm might inspire some of our members to further develop new skills and pursue new interests.
How can people get involved with the SPE Net Zero group?
There are several ways to get involved. Members can follow the SPE Net Zero LinkedIn page and connect with me on LinkedIn. If your membership has lapsed, renewing it would be a great way to stay informed about upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also be sharing announcements through SPE’s regular communication channels. Additionally, we’re always on the lookout for sponsors for the SPE Net Zero Guide Committee. If you have expertise you’d like to share or are interested in giving a talk on innovative technologies or approaches, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re also looking to expand our committee, so if you’re passionate about Net Zero and want to contribute, we’d welcome your involvement!
Connect with Max on LinkedIn
Would you like to send Max a message? Connect with him here.
