Tecpetrol cuts $17.2 million in costs through AI, drones, and robotics
Tecpetrol reduced operating expenses by $17.2 million in 2025 by deploying artificial intelligence, drone fleets, and robotic systems across its oil and gas operations in Argentina and Colombia. The figure represents a 19% increase from $14.4 million in savings the previous year.
The company operates drilling rigs in Argentina's Neuquén basin that are controlled from a real-time operations center in Buenos Aires, 1,100 kilometers away from the field. Engineers monitor more than 400 variables simultaneously, using AI and machine learning to optimize decisions and reduce downtime.
Drones handling routine inspections
Tecpetrol deployed drone fleets across all operational areas for inspections in confined spaces, power lines, and plants. At the Pesquería Power Plant near Monterrey, Mexico, an autonomous drone inspects transmission line infrastructure and transmits real-time images to remote operators-some based in Buenos Aires.
The company also tested a quadruped robot at the same facility for remote inspections and thermographic measurements, reducing worker exposure to hazardous conditions.
Training and recruitment accelerated
Tecpetrol incorporated VR simulators for training in critical areas including overhead crane operation, work at heights, and vehicle driving. The company also integrated AI into its recruitment process to speed up onboarding for strategic projects.
These efficiency gains came as Tecpetrol reported losses last year and rising operating costs tied to increased investment and crude production. The company said the technological initiatives target smart operations, better resource use, and reduced production losses across its Fortín de Piedra, Los Bastos, Agua Salada, El Tordillo, and Aguaragüe fields in Argentina, plus CPO 13 in Colombia.
Operations professionals looking to implement similar efficiency improvements may find value in exploring AI for Operations and AI Agents & Automation resources.
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