An extended commercial alliance to accelerate development and deployment of cellulosic ethanol was announced by Royal Dutch Shell and the Iogen Corporation yesterday (15th July).  As part of the deal Shell will make significant investment in technology development with Iogen, a jointly owned development company dedicated to advancing cellulosic ethanol.  The arrangement will also see Shell increasing its shareholding in Iogen Energy Corporation from 26.3% to 50%.  Shell first took an equity stake in 2002.

Commenting on Shell's increased investment, Dr. Graeme Sweeney, Shell Executive Vice President Future Fuels and C02 said "This is a strong statement that Shell is committed to accelerating the development of cellulosic ethanol in collaboration with Iogen.  We have come a long way together already on this particular technology pathway for sustainable biofuel and we will be working ever closer to meet the technical and commercial challenges facing larger scale production."

"We are excited to see this expanded partnership", said Brian Foody, Chief Executive Officer of Iogen Corporation.  "This transaction sets the stage for successful large scale cellulosic ethanol production."