We believe this is largely due to human ingenuity and technology that we meet the current needs of sustainable energy and we can do so for many years to come.
Shell is a pioneer in technology for over 100 years. Some made by our staff and our partners great ideas have led to important innovations. These are not always immediately known by the public because they are used, for example, into underground wells or in the oceans. But they all contribute to the improvement of our industry and the needs of our customers.
People and organisation
Scientists
We have 45,000 technical and engineering staff worldwide. Our global network of technical centres located close to our main markets and our production sites drive forward the innovation needed to meet future energy challenges.
Around 10% of our technical staff conducts research and development at our technology centres in 11 countries. Their knowledge and creativity help us to meet the world’s growing need for energy in a socially and environmentally responsible way.
Chief Scientists
Our internationally recognised Chief Scientists help to enhance the expertise of our staff and act as ambassadors for Shell technology, collaborating with academics and other industry experts to lead the way in their area of expertise. They work with our Chief Technology Officer to develop and deliver technologies that support our current business and to identify emerging technologies that will help shape the future of energy.
Collaboration & open innovation
At Shell, we recognise that no single company can develop all the products and technologies needed to meet the world's growing demand for energy, with less environmental impact. We work closely with industry partners and recognised experts to spark new ideas, share knowledege and speed up the development of new concepts. This includes unusual collaborations beyond our own industry. We also welcome creative ideas to help tackle this challenge from outside contributors. Our approach is called "open innovation."
Researching around the world
Top scientists and researchers are hard at work in our technology centres across the globe. Their expertise and creativity have led to technical breakthroughs: from advanced equipment that unlocks energy resources at extreme water depths or in freezing conditions to new, more efficient transport fuels and lubricants.
Treasures of technology
Technology is vital to delivering affordable energy with less environmental impact. Our network of scientists and technical staff across the globe is working to help meet this challenge. Shell is currently the largest investor in research and development among international oil firms. In 2013, we spent $1.3 billion on research and development (R&D), once again more than any other international oil and gas company.
We have three major technology centres, so-called hubs, located in cities in The Netherlands, India and the USA. They sit close to our customers in the heart of regions vital to our business. Our chosen locations also give us access to world class researchers, working across time zones to ensure research never stops. These hubs can link up through 3D virtual reality systems to work simultaneously, for example, on the design of wells.
More information
GameChanger programme
Shell’s GameChanger programme invites original thinkers to share their ideas for resolving energy challenges. If we think a concept has potential, we can provide financial support to prove its feasibility.
Since 1996 GameChanger has invested more than $300 million in more than 3,000 ideas and helped turn 250 of them into successful projects. These include early support for FLNG, a giant floating facility that cools natural gas to liquids at sea. Shell has started building the world’s first FLNG vessel, which has the potential to revolutionise the way natural gas resources are developed.