Energy Renaissance Conference

Energy Renaissance:

Transformative Trends in Oil & Gas Conference – A Game-Changing Event

The Energy Renaissance: Transformative Trends in Oil & Gas conference, hosted by the Center for Energy Accounting and Sustainability (CEAS) at the University of North Texas, took place on November 13-14, 2024 at the Westin Denver Downtown in Denver, Colorado. This two-day event brought together industry leaders, experts, and innovators for dynamic discussions, invaluable networking, and groundbreaking insights.

This conference was a true reflection of the fast-paced changes transforming the oil and gas sector, featuring top-notch speakers and high-powered sessions. With a diverse range of topics, the event explored everything from the latest regulatory shifts and tax policy updates to cutting-edge technological advancements and sustainable practices. Attendees gained first-hand insights into the world of energy, with practical takeaways on how to navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and shape the future of the industry.

From tax legislative updates to geopolitical perspectives, sustainability reporting, and cybersecurity to private equity in oil & gas, the conference addressed the key topics driving change in the industry. Discussions around carbon capture, generative AI, and digital transformation demonstrated the innovations shaping tomorrow’s energy landscape.

The event also served as an incredible platform for learning and collaboration, with leading experts sharing their wisdom on complex issues such as financial reporting, hedging strategies, and E&P accounting software. Our attendees were given the opportunity to connect with top professionals from all sectors of the industry and explore the cutting-edge tools, technologies, and strategies that are changing the game.

Whether you were looking for insights into the energy tax code, new ERP strategies, or how to integrate business intelligence into your operations, the Energy Renaissance conference provided an all-encompassing view of the oil and gas industry’s future. We were proud to host this forward-thinking event and excited for the continued impact it will have on driving change in the sector.

Program and Session Details

Richard Bradsby, President of Liberty Power Innovations, provided an insightful look into the electrification and gasification of oilfield services. He discussed the shift from diesel to natural gas and grid power, the role of innovative technologies in fracking, and the long-term relevance of hydrocarbons. Richard also shared Liberty’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions, particularly in providing affordable, cleaner fuels and addressing the needs of underserved communities.

Alex Brosseau, Senior Manager at Deloitte Tax LLP, led a real-time exploration of post-election tax policy, focusing on the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The session provided an in-depth look at the legislative landscape, economic and procedural factors shaping future tax reforms, and the potential implications for the energy sector. Attendees gained a clearer understanding of the evolving tax environment and the likely impacts on oil and gas businesses.

Jason Schumacher, Partner at O’Melveny, took participants through the latest mega deals and consolidation trends in the energy sector. The session highlighted the complexities of major energy transactions, including deal structures, legal obstacles, and the changing dynamics of mergers and acquisitions. It provided valuable insights into how legal frameworks and market conditions are shaping the future of oil and gas transactions.

Jesse Tsai, Managing Director at BDO, discussed the opportunities created by the Inflation Reduction Act’s tax credits. This session focused on leveraging the Tax Credit Transfer Regime to maximize value through energy tax credits, highlighting key triggers for monetization and strategic steps for execution. Professionals walked away with the knowledge needed to navigate tax incentives and integrate them into their organizational strategies.

Davi Bryan, Founding Partner at SRO Advisors, presented a session on embracing strategic change in the fast-evolving technological landscape. He provided attendees with tools and strategies for leading organizations through shifting paradigms driven by AI and digital transformation. This session emphasized the importance of creating a personalized roadmap for managing change and leveraging technology for growth.

Rachna Hanrahan and Omar Usmani, both from Accenture, explored the journey to digital transformation and its alignment with organizational values. The session covered the critical aspects of defining digital transformation and assigning measurable value to those initiatives. Attendees learned about tracking progress, ensuring visibility, and proactively addressing challenges through transformation efforts.

Lauren Intinarelli, Managing Director at CFGI, guided participants through the fundamentals of hedging and risk management in volatile markets. The session focused on how companies can develop effective hedging strategies to mitigate financial risks while staying agile amidst unpredictable market shifts. Key takeaways included best practices for managing hedge programs and understanding the hedge accounting model.

Rob Holland, Founder of Provision Analytics, and Dhruv Jain, Principal Director at Accenture, discussed how generative AI is revolutionizing the energy sector. The session explored AI's potential to drive innovation, optimize operations, and enhance business intelligence within oil and gas companies. Attendees gained practical insights on implementing AI-driven solutions in finance and energy operations.

Jonathan Duersch, Associate Chief Accountant at the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission, provided an update on the latest accounting and financial reporting standards. The session covered current regulatory developments affecting the energy sector and how companies can comply with SEC reporting requirements. Jonathan offered insights into ongoing initiatives and the future direction of accounting standards impacting oil and gas firms.

Malone Mitchell II, President of Longfellow Energy, LLC, shared his expertise on the macroeconomic, geopolitical, and operational challenges facing global oil and gas operations. The session focused on the complexities of operating in diverse international markets and how geopolitical factors influence financial decision-making and capital allocation. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of how to navigate the global energy landscape.

Craig Frio, from EnCap Investments, discussed the evolving role of private equity in the oil and gas sector. He provided a comprehensive overview of the historical context of private equity investments and how strategies have changed in recent years. The session highlighted the impact of market conditions, investment timelines, and exit strategies in shaping the future of oil and gas private equity.

Valerie Wieman and Marcin Olewinski, both from PwC, discussed the state of sustainability reporting and the regulatory frameworks shaping it. The session examined the evolving landscape of global sustainability regulations, including the SEC's climate rule and international standards such as the CSRD and ISSB. Participants learned about the implications of these frameworks for U.S.-based energy companies.

Bill Groffy, Senior Director at the Colorado Oil and Gas Association (COGA), provided insights into Colorado's state-level regulatory and legislative landscape. The session covered key issues affecting oil and gas development, including pending bills, policy changes, and their potential impact on the energy industry. Participants were informed about the challenges and opportunities within the regulatory environment.

Matt Gorham, Managing Director at PwC, led a session focused on cybersecurity in the oil and gas industry. The session examined current threats, best practices for securing operations, and the strategic importance of integrating cybersecurity into energy sector business plans. Attendees learned about the latest trends and technologies in protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

Russell Corl, Managing Partner at Magnum Forge, presented an overview of the evolving E&P accounting software market. He discussed the impact of the shift from perpetual licensing to subscription models and provided a comparative analysis of top software vendors. The session highlighted the challenges and opportunities for energy companies as they navigate this transition.

Marty Tschida, State and Local Tax Principal at Moss Adams, addressed the complexities of state and local taxation for oil and gas companies. The session provided insights into tax strategies and considerations at the state and local level, including compliance and planning tips. Participants walked away with practical knowledge of managing state tax liabilities within the oil and gas sector.

Harrison Bedford, Principal Product Manager at W Energy, discussed how to integrate carbon capture and renewable energy initiatives into existing oil and gas operations. The session explored how a configurable back-office system, coupled with business intelligence capabilities, can future-proof energy companies. Attendees learned how to streamline operations and adapt to evolving regulations while staying ahead of the curve.

Ashley Werner, Senior Manager at Weaver, provided a year-end update on tax law changes impacting the oil and gas industry. The session focused on recent legislative developments and available tax credits, helping attendees understand how the new rules affect oil and gas taxation. Participants gained practical insights into preparing for the 2024 tax year.

James C. Bowie, Managing Director at Ernst & Young, discussed recent accounting pronouncements and ongoing FASB projects relevant to oil and gas companies. The session provided updates on technical accounting standards and SEC activities affecting the energy sector. Attendees left with a better understanding of how these developments will influence financial reporting in the industry.