JULY 2024 Volume 67 No. 7 THE ISSUE The " Better Business " Publication Serving the Exploration / Drilling / Production Industry JULY 2024 AOGR's New Tech Issue: The Reality of AI Permian Prize Fighter Modern Chemistry Whereas AOGR's editors strive to present all aspects of upstream operations in every issue, artificial intelligence is proving beneficial in many of these areas. In the business realm, AI tools are powerful productivity multipliers when selectively applied to the right applications and with realistic expectations. July's cover story offers a compelling case in point by illustrating how integrating AI into robotic automation solutions helps users maintain strong business-to-business relationships and avoid unnecessary costs. Another AI-related feature examines the considerable extent to which AI and energy interests overlap. The Permian Prize Fighter special reports then shift to a profile of Coterra Energy and its diversified portfolio of both liquid and gas assets in diverse basins. Special reports conclude with Modern Chemistry and an up-close look at how new testing methodologies and more robust equipment are helping maximize the effectiveness of chemical applications. Industry news includes Official Convention Sections for KIOGA and PAW. Cover by Robert Flaherty, with the sun amplified by a Canon EF 50 mm lens zooming in from 1.5 miles away from location. Issue photography courtesy of Coterra Energy and Flotek Industries. NEWS 15 | Infrastructure Projects: MVP begins transporting natural gas 15 | In the Courts: U.S. Supreme Court overturns Chevron deference; Appeals court upholds FERC's pipeline certificate 16 | State Policies: Virginia decides not to follow California EV mandate 17 | Events: TIPRO's summer conference approaches 17 | Around the Industry: Matador Resources adds bolt-on properties in Permian; Venture Global inks deal to send U.S. LNG to Ukraine; Pace of natural gas injection continues to slow 27 | Geopolitics: Pompeo notes energy continues to fuel world events 70 | Financial Perspectives: Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma speakers cite intriguing market trends 72 | Crude Outlook: Investment firm sees similarities between today and historic bull markets 75 | Oil Demand: Crude-to-chemicals a growing outlet REDEFINING OFFICIAL ASSOCIATION SECTIONS 29 | KIOGA: Kansas group keeps fighting for independents 35 | PAW: Association celebrates milestone as it tackles challenges COLUMNS 21 | Tech Connections DEPARTMENTS 9 | Calendar 12 | Oil & Gas Counts 15 | Industry Digest 23 | Washington Watch 76 | Industry Focus 80 | Classified Advertising 82 | Advertisers Index LEARN MORE LOGISTICS FOR AN OPTIMIZED FRAC LOCATIONhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&si=TcEH6L-LcpLEGx5o&v=wPpNjKw6DCM&feature=youtu.be&ab_channel=LibertyEnergy