09-01-2013

Shell technology center Houston relaunches after expansion and renovation

The center is the largest of Shell’s three technology hubs with more than one million square feet of laboratory and office space. It is home to more than 2,000 of Shell’s scientists and engineers including six of the 11 Shell Chief Scientists who are internationally-recognized thoughtleaders in a range of disciplines. The Houston team collaborates with colleagues worldwide to share knowledge and work efficiently by linking up through 3D virtual reality systems.

Shell Technology Center Houston is also the global base for a number of specific technology focus areas across upstream and downstream where proficiency, deep knowledge and thought leadership are concentrated. Unique synergies will be sought in the search for innovation solutions to help meet future energy demand.

“Shell has spent over a billion dollars a year on researching and developing new technologies – more than any of our peers. This investment in innovation and a consistent commitment to collaboration are essential to spark new ideas and develop solutions to today’s and tomorrow’s energy challenges,” said Matthias Bichsel, director of Projects & Technology at Royal Dutch Shell. “They are the keys to delivering much needed energy for a rapidly growing global population and ensuring improved living standards for millions of people now and in the future.”

Shell works closely with partners in and outside of its industry to come up with new ideas, create new solutions, share knowledge and speed up technology development and deployment. For example, its partnership with an aerospace company leverages the power of fiber optics to deliver more natural gas from tight gas fields, and with another technology company to collaborate on research to extend the life of oil and natural gas fields.

“Real innovation relies on co-creation, collaborative problem-solving and cultivating next-generation ideas from within and outside our company to pioneer unique solutions,” said Gerald Schotman, Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President, Innovation, Research & Development at Royal Dutch Shell. “Advanced technology solutions continue to generate new energy sources, increase efficiency, and address and responsibly manage environmental impacts.”

As a result of the refurbishment, about 60 percent of the Houston technology center is new or renovated. The improvements result in a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and a significant reduction in chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from its operations. Along with receiving a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification, the center reduced energy consumption by approximately $2.0 mln/year.

Shell Technology Center Houston, along with technology hubs in Bangalore (India) and Amsterdam (The Netherlands), is a key part of Shell’s global network of technology centers and which are connected to Shell’s global businesses, customers and partners. Locations of other Shell research, development and testing facilities currently include Canada, Germany, The Netherlands,  Qatar, Norway, the Sultanate of Oman and the UK.  A new technical center for lubricants technology is underway in China.