Shell, officially known as Royal Dutch Shell, is one of the world’s largest multinational oil and gas companies, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, and incorporated in the UK. Established in 1907 through the merger of the Royal Dutch Petroleum Company and the UK’s Shell Transport and Trading Company, Shell has grown into a global leader in energy production and innovation. Operating in over 70 countries, Shell is involved in every aspect of the energy industry, including exploration, production, refining, and marketing of oil and natural gas, as well as renewable energy solutions.
As one of the "supermajors" of the energy industry, Shell is also deeply invested in sustainability and the transition to renewable energy. The company aims to become net-zero by 2050, focusing on cleaner energy sources such as wind, solar, hydrogen, and electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions. With its wide-ranging operations and dedication to cleaner energy, Shell plays a critical role in shaping the future of the global energy landscape.
CEO and Founder of Shell
Shell’s origins date back to the early 20th century with the founding of the Royal Dutch Petroleum Company in the Netherlands and the Shell Transport and Trading Company in the UK. The two companies merged in 1907 to form the Royal Dutch Shell Group, creating one of the largest energy companies in the world.
As of 2023, Shell is led by CEO Ben van Beurden, who has been at the helm since 2014. Under his leadership, Shell has taken significant steps toward sustainability, expanding its portfolio into renewable energy sources and committing to reducing carbon emissions. Ben van Beurden has been instrumental in steering the company toward a cleaner and greener future while maintaining its dominance in the global energy sector.
List of Top Companies Under Shell
Shell has expanded its reach beyond oil and gas, acquiring companies in various sectors to diversify its operations. Below is a list of key companies and divisions under Shell, along with their valuations:
| Company/Division Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shell Oil Company (USA) | 1922 (Founded) | $150 Billion | Oil and Gas Exploration |
| NewMotion (EV Charging Solutions) | 2017 (Acquired) | $150 Million | Electric Vehicle Charging |
| BG Group | 2016 (Acquired) | $70 Billion | Oil and Gas Exploration (LNG Focus) |
| Shell Energy | 2008 (Rebranded) | $50 Billion | Renewable Energy, Electricity |
| SolarNow | 2021 (Acquired) | N/A | Solar Energy (Africa) |
| First Utility (Shell Energy UK) | 2018 (Acquired) | $500 Million | Renewable Energy, Home Utilities |
| Nature Energy | 2022 (Acquired) | $2 Billion | Biogas Production |
| Ionity (Partnership) | 2019 (Investment) | $1 Billion | EV Charging Infrastructure |
| UGI Energy Services | 2017 (Acquired) | $300 Million | Natural Gas and Propane Distribution |
FAQs About Shell (UK/Netherlands)
Q1: When was Shell founded, and by whom?
A: Shell was founded in 1907 through the merger of the Royal Dutch Petroleum Company (Netherlands) and Shell Transport and Trading Company (UK). It was established by Marcus Samuel, 1st Viscount Bearsted, and the Dutch royal family.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of Shell?
A: As of 2023, Ben van Beurden is the CEO of Shell. He has been leading the company since 2014, focusing on sustainable energy transitions.
Q3: What is Shell's role in renewable energy?
A: Shell is expanding its portfolio in renewable energy through investments in solar, wind, electric vehicle charging, and biogas production. The company aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Q4: What are some of the top companies under Shell?
A: Some of the top companies and divisions under Shell include Shell Oil Company (USA), NewMotion (EV charging), Shell Energy, BG Group (LNG), and Nature Energy (biogas).
Q5: What is Shell’s market capitalization?
A: As of 2024, Shell's market capitalization is approximately $220 billion, making it one of the largest energy companies globally.
Q6: What are Shell's sustainability goals?
A: Shell has committed to becoming a net-zero emissions company by 2050, focusing on investments in renewable energy and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
