Shell's Chief Technology Officer, Yuri Sebregts, challenges the notion that all necessary technologies for decarbonisation are readily available. He disputes claims that current technologies alone are sufficient to combat climate change. While electrifying personal mobility is achievable, the decarbonisation of industries like aviation, shipping, and energy production presents considerable challenges.
Sebregts acknowledges that to be impactful, technologies must be commercially viable and scalable. He highlights the need for substantial technological development in industries such as steel, cement, plastics, and fertilisers, which collectively account for a significant portion of global energy consumption.
Shell invests around $1 billion annually in research and development, with a focus on decarbonisation technologies. The company is involved in projects related to third-generation biofuels and a new electrolyzer system to reduce green hydrogen costs. Sebregts underscores the necessity of technological breakthroughs to make green hydrogen more cost-effective, and he sees potential in direct air capture technology for carbon removal.
Sebregts suggests that direct air capture has advantages, including flexibility in its deployment and reduced transport costs, even though capturing CO2 directly from the air is more challenging due to lower CO2 concentrations. He points out that this technology can be particularly useful in regions with abundant renewable energy resources and limited infrastructure.
