Rolls-Royce and Shell have worked together at times for over a century, and the signing of the latest memorandum of understanding (MOU) which aims to support decarbonization of the aviation industry and make further progress towards net zero carbon emissions.
The MoU will expand and accelerate a number of existing areas of cooperation between the two companies, including advancing the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This includes Rolls-Royce's new SAFinity service, for which Shell is the exclusive SAF supplier, and working together on demonstrating the use of 100% SAF as a full “drop-in” solution. This will see the companies explore opportunities in order to progress the use of 100% SAF towards certification, building on Rolls-Royce's current 100% SAF testing program.
“The heritage of collaboration between Rolls-Royce and Shell is a strong foundation for the future, particularly when it comes to our shared ambitions for achieving net zero emissions,” said Anna Mascolo, President, Shell Aviation. “Being from different parts of the aviation value chain means Rolls-Royce and Shell bring complementary expertise, experiences and ideas to the table. Wide-ranging cooperation can drive new solutions that will help the aviation industry and our customers navigate a pathway to net zero.”
The MoU will explore opportunities for Shell and Rolls-Royce to provide decarbonisation solutions to meet their respective targets to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. This will include both companies contributing technologies and expertise to help reduce operational emissions. Shell evaluate opportunities to support Rolls-Royce in reducing travel emissions through the supply of SAF, while Rolls-Royce will provide its technical expertise to advise Shell in the development of its new fuels, and also innovative low-carbon energy alternatives for new aircraft and power systems.
