How Shell is harnessing AI to produce cleaner energy

The energy industry is experiencing a significant transformation as Shell leverages artificial intelligence to optimize operations and accelerate the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

Strategic vision and leadership: Shell’s approach to AI integration reflects a balanced perspective on technology’s role in energy transformation.

• Dan Jeavons, VP of Digital Innovation at Shell, emphasizes AI’s role as a tool to accelerate energy transition and reduce CO2 emissions
• The company has developed multiple AI initiatives spanning scientific simulation, operations monitoring, and workforce empowerment
• Shell’s strategy combines both cutting-edge applications and practical implementations across its organization

Breakthrough technological achievements: Shell’s collaboration with NVIDIA has produced remarkable advances in energy-related computing capabilities.

• Complex energy simulations now run up to a million times faster than traditional methods
• AI models can study carbon dioxide storage in subsurface reservoirs 100,000 times faster than conventional physics-based simulation
• These accelerated capabilities enable rapid evaluation of different geologies, injection rates, and pressures for carbon capture projects

Practical AI applications: The company has implemented several real-world applications of AI technology across its operations.

• Visual Remote Sensing program uses geospatial AI to optimize clean energy investments and identify biofuel opportunities
• Machine vision systems monitor equipment states, detect emissions, and enhance safety protocols
• Edge computing enables AI-powered safety monitoring even in locations with limited connectivity

Organizational transformation: Shell has created a comprehensive framework for democratizing AI access throughout its workforce.

• A structured zoning system categorizes AI applications based on risk and complexity
• More than 12,000 employees participate in an AI community supported by extensive digital skills training
• The program enables frontline workers to develop AI solutions for operational challenges they directly encounter

Future grid management: AI plays a crucial role in Shell’s vision for tomorrow’s power infrastructure.

• The transition from centralized power plants to distributed renewable energy sources requires sophisticated AI management systems
• AI-powered geospatial analysis optimizes EV charging station placement and identifies new biofuel sources
• Data centers are being reimagined as energy hubs, potentially catalyzing broader sector electrification

Emerging possibilities and industry impact: Shell’s AI initiatives demonstrate how traditional energy companies can evolve while addressing climate challenges.

• The company leverages generative AI and large language models to accelerate R&D cycles
• Shell’s comprehensive approach to AI integration serves as a model for industry transformation
• The focus on both immediate operational improvements and long-term research suggests a sustainable path forward for energy sector evolution