By June, Sawan had a change of heart, and that pledge to cut oil production by 2030? Gone, like yesterday’s news.

Posted by John Donovan 30 Sept 2023

In the thrilling world of oil and gas, where environmental concerns are nothing but a pesky fly to be swatted away, Shell’s CEO, Wael Sawan, is emerging as a true visionary. While the world was distracted by lockdowns and declining industrial activity in March 2020, Shell made a bold move that left us all in awe—well, not really.

You see, in 2021, Shell made a groundbreaking announcement: they would cut their oil production by a whopping 1-2% per year until 2030 and generously toss a few investments into renewables. Naturally, some of us sceptics thought this idea was about as half-baked as a frozen pizza.

But, oh boy, were we wrong! Who could have guessed that the oil market, which is about as cyclical as a rollercoaster, would bounce back from the depths of despair? Shell’s share price, which briefly dipped to a measly 900p in 2020, has now soared to the astronomical heights of over 2,600p. Thank you, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and global energy security fears, for this unexpected windfall. Who cares about ethics when there are profits to be made, right?

And now, enter our hero, Wael Sawan, Shell’s relatively new CEO. In January, Sawan showered investors with pearls of wisdom, declaring that intelligent thinking about energy transition requires careful investments in renewables. But don’t worry, folks, he’s not about to let go of the company’s primary offerings—oil and natural gas. Who needs a sustainable future when you can have fossil fuels?

By June, Sawan had a change of heart, and that pledge to cut oil production by 2030? Gone, like yesterday’s news. He even boosted the dividend by a generous 15%, because why not? And the share buyback program? It’s now a cool “at least” $5 billion, up from a measly $4 billion in recent quarters. Who needs to worry about sustainable practices when you can buy back your own shares, right?

Oh, and remember that European home retail power business Shell once touted as a key energy transition vehicle? Well, that’s been dumped too. Who needs to support clean energy initiatives when you can stick to good ol’ hydrocarbons?

But it gets better. Market imbalances caused by Russia and Saudi Arabia’s production cuts and underinvestment in hydrocarbon projects during the Covid years are creating a supply deficit that could last a decade. This could lead to a short-lived oil price spike past $100 per barrel. And guess what? That’s music to Shell’s ears because it means their oil and gas return on investment will remain strong. Who cares about the environment when you can make a quick buck, right?

Of course, there are a few minor caveats. Shell seems to be focusing on generating free cash flow instead of financing its operations through debt. It’s a responsible strategy, but it might slow down growth a tad. And there’s that irritating issue of stranded oil and gas assets, but who’s counting?

Sure, the dividend payout is still about 30% lower than pre-COVID levels, but who needs dividends when you can focus on performance, discipline, and simplification, right?

After all, who cares about a sustainable future when there are profits to be made today? Shell, we salute your unwavering commitment to the past!

RELATED: Will Shell CEO’s robust messaging fuel gains at FTSE 100 energy giant? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK.

Shell Energy Broadband Reviews recently posted on broadband.co.uk

Examples posted by John Donovan 30 Sept 2023

Reviewer Michael Collins: Location St. Neots: Date 2023-09-04

Comments
What a load of rubbish if I could I’d give them minus 5

Reviewer MB: Location Southampton: Date 2023-08-31

Comments

Far cheaper (initially) when I joined but I have been plagued by very slow broadband speeds (once recorded at 0.2Mbps) and signal drops. I’m now switching to Plusnet and Shell have cancelled my service one full day earlier than requested. Beyond dreadful.

Reviewer David Twining-Harris: Location Bristol: Date 2023-08-29

Comments

I should have checked the reviews before signing up to Shell! I’ve suffered from repeated outages sometimes up to four hours. I’m now considering leaving and cancelling my direct debit so that Shell can’t try taking cancellation fees. I do not understand how they can levy such charges when they’ve failed to fulfil a contract. They’ll probably try threatening me with loss of credit rating credibility but at the age of 83 that’s hardly going to be of concern! Has anyone considered taking class action against Shell? There appears to be a huge amount of dissatisfied customers!

It’s almost as if these employees think that transitioning to renewable energy is more important than, say, maximizing profits from fossil fuels. How quaint!

Posted by John Donovan 27 Sept 2023

In a mind-boggling display of naivety, some Shell employees have had the audacity to openly express concerns about the company’s energy transition strategy. They’ve even had the nerve to urge CEO Wael Sawan not to retreat from renewables! Can you believe it?

In an open letter that probably sent shockwaves through the hallowed halls of Shell’s corporate headquarters, two employees from Shell’s low-carbon division dared to share their thoughts. The letter made its way onto the company’s intranet, sparking what we can only imagine was a lively debate among Shell executives about whether or not the Earth is flat.

The letter began by stating that it had always been Shell’s ambition to be a leader in the energy transition, but then it took a surprising turn by expressing concerns about the direction the company is taking. It’s almost as if these employees think that transitioning to renewable energy is more important than, say, maximizing profits from fossil fuels. How quaint!

Shell’s green energy plans have been a source of fascination ever since Sawan took the reins at the start of the year. Under his leadership, the company did the unthinkable and decided to refocus on its core hydrocarbons operations. Yes, you read that correctly. Hydrocarbons, the fuel of the past, have made a comeback.

But it doesn’t stop there. Shell has also been disposing of various power sector interests this year and is even rumored to be looking to sell Sonnen, a German battery storage group. Clearly, the company has no interest in the renewable energy sector anymore, right?

Renewable executives, including Thomas Brostrom, a former high-flyer at Orsted who was brought in to lead Shell’s renewables charge, have also left the company. But who needs seasoned professionals with expertise in renewable energy when you can have hydrocarbons, right?

Sawan himself couldn’t resist diving into this fascinating debate over the letter. He reportedly stated that “there are no easy answers and no shortage of dilemmas or challenges” when it comes to the energy transition. Who would’ve thought?

Shell, not one to be outdone in the art of corporate double-speak, told Reuters that they appreciate their staff’s passion for both the energy transition and Shell. They even hope that the optics of recent announcements are deceiving and that Shell will somehow miraculously continue to be a leader in the energy transition while cozying up to hydrocarbons.

The letter was signed by two daring individuals, Lisette de Heiden and Wouter Drinkwaard, who both work in Shell’s low-carbon division. They chose not to respond to a request for comment, probably because they were too busy shaking their heads in disbelief at the absurdity of it all.

Posted by John Donovan 26 Sept 2023

In a delightful twist of fate, BP and Shell, those champions of environmental responsibility, have seen their stock prices soar like eagles in the past month. And what’s the secret behind this sudden success story, you ask? Well, it’s the good old resurgent oil price, of course! Who would have thought that predictions of the world moving away from fossil fuels were anything more than wishful thinking?

In a striking parallel, BP and Shell now find themselves in the same league as the beloved tobacco stocks, British American Tobacco and Imperial Brands. These companies, much like our oil pals, have faced their fair share of criticism for the delightful consequences of their products. But, lo and behold, the world’s appetite for tobacco hasn’t waned entirely, just like the world’s insatiable thirst for oil.

Sure, smoking may have seen a decline, and smoking bans may have become more common, but the tobacco industry, much like our oil friends, remains as profitable as ever. They’ve even dabbled in new areas like vaping and e-cigarettes to keep the good times rolling.

And so it goes with BP and Shell, those purveyors of pollution and motor accidents. They may have faced some pesky scrutiny, but fear not, the demand for oil and gas is alive and well. Who cares about clean alternatives like wind and solar energy when we can keep burning fossil fuels at an alarming rate?

Investors are seeing the light, recognizing the sheer brilliance of BP and Shell as long-term investments. Just like tobacco stocks, these oil giants can offer stable dividends in a world that’s slowly waking up to the environmental consequences of their actions. BP currently boasts a delightful 4.09% yield, while Shell offers a charming 3.61%. These numbers are expected to grow over time, because who needs a habitable planet when you can have dividends?

But wait, there’s more! Both companies come with relatively low valuations. BP is a steal at 6.34 times earnings, and Shell is practically giving itself away at 7.82 times earnings. Such bargains, right?

So, while the short-term prospects for BP and Shell remain uncertain, there’s every reason to believe that they’ll continue their merry journey down the path of environmental destruction. With their potential for consistent income and lower valuations, these two oil giants are the perfect choice for investors who want to profit from the never-ending demand for oil and gas. Who cares about the future when you can make a quick buck today?

Shell Energy Broadband Reviews recently posted on broadband.co.uk

Examples posted by John Donovan 26 Sept 2023

Reviewer Martin: Location Derby: Date 2023-08-29

Comments

Fast and reliable wifi when it finally was set up, but faced weeks and weeks of delays before this with poor communication and unkept promises from Shell. Moved house earlier this year and tried to stick with them but had similar issues where I was promised a ‘go live’ date that came and went with no wifi only to be told the order hadn’t gone through. Waited a week to find out it was still no further and they could not give me a new date, so cut my losses and cancelled with them. No real apology from Shell and a constant sense that people I spoke to on the phone didn’t really know what was going on and just wanted to give me a quick answer to get the call finished.

Reviewer Cara: Location Date: 2023-08-25

Comments

Absolutely a joke don’t recommend!!

The wifi was hardly working around my flat i wasn’t able to get wifi in the bedroom. I decided to leave and they told me i would have to pay a fee even though my contract was ending with them theyve re-opened a new contract i left them thinking my contract was over as when i had my new wifi which was talk talk fibre alot easier and works perfectly fine around all my rooms they where also suppose to tell them i was leaving even ddo i did tell them i was leaving and now trying too charge me £122.00 even ddo I’ve left them for nearly a year now blydi ridiculous and if i dont pay there getting people to come out and collect it. I dont owe you any money ive sent the router back aswel to you total joke of a company

Reviewer Lee: Location Wales: Date 2023-08-24

Comments

Worst company I have ever had to deal with, from the very start when we couldn’t get internet for the first 10 days. To now 3 months on when I’m being charged for call-outs I didn’t ask for. Just trying to get this sorted and call out charge taken off my bill has taken so much time. Live chat is awful and call centre is not much better. Do not go with them you will regret it like me.

…the province of Groningen has endured over a thousand earthquakes in the last couple of decades, while the Dutch government and our beloved Shell and Exxon raked in a mere €360 billion.

Posted by John Donovan 24 Sept 2023

In a stunning display of corporate responsibility and government foresight, the Dutch government, along with energy giants Shell and Exxon Mobil, has finally decided to end the Groningen gas field. But, of course, it’s only after years of ignoring the pesky little problem of earthquakes and building damage.

A mere seven months ago, a parliamentary inquiry dared to suggest that the Dutch government and the dynamic Shell-Exxon duo had been a bit too negligent in their gas production escapades. Apparently, they didn’t quite grasp the notion that drilling for gas might have some, shall we say, side effects on the residents of Groningen. How adorable!

This massive Groningen gas field, operated by the Shell-Exxon lovechild known as NAM, has been the gift that keeps on giving, supplying Europe with natural gas for decades. Who cares about a few tremors and collapsing houses when there are profits to be made, right?

But fear not, dear citizens of Groningen, for the Dutch government has finally come to the rescue! They’ve declared, with all the urgency of a sloth on a Sunday afternoon, that the Groningen gas field will cease operation completely on October 1, 2023. Only a decade or so after those pesky earthquakes started causing trouble. Bravo!

But wait, there’s more! The Council of Ministers, in a fit of decisiveness, also decided that they’ll be demolishing all those extraction locations in October 2024, just to make sure the fields never bother them again. After all, who wants the option to restart a controversial gas field looming over their heads?

However, let’s not get too carried away. The Council kindly left a small window of opportunity open. In case of “extreme need,” they graciously allow the field to operate temporarily. You know, like when there’s “very severe cold.” Because who needs a warm home when we can’t extract gas temporarily, right?

Of course, there was a time when rising gas prices and an energy crunch made the idea of keeping the gas fields operational a tempting prospect. But alas, the law now requires these fields to be demolished, effective next October. How inconvenient!

To add a bit of poetic justice to this tale, the province of Groningen has endured over a thousand earthquakes in the last couple of decades, while the Dutch government and our beloved Shell and Exxon raked in a mere €360 billion. Just a tiny sum, really. Another €66 billion went to Shell and Exxon, because we all know they needed a bit of extra pocket change.

In 2013, Shell and Exxon were gently informed that maybe, just maybe, they should consider reducing output and start thinking about shutting the field down. But why rush? It’s only been a decade since then.

In conclusion, we salute the Dutch government, Shell, and Exxon for their stellar performance in the grand theatre of environmental stewardship. Their ability to ignore inconvenient truths and act at the pace of a snail in a marathon is truly a sight to behold.

Posted by John Donovan: 20 Sept 2023

In an act of sheer defiance against the profit-hungry giants of the energy world, the Diocese of Salford, a beacon of moral authority, has decided to part ways with its investments in BP and Shell. Why, you ask? Well, they argue that these corporations have been just a tad too focused on making money and not quite passionate enough about saving the planet. How dare they prioritize profits over Mother Earth?

Shell Energy Broadband Reviews recently posted on broadband.co.uk

Examples posted by John Donovan 20 Sept 2023

Reviewer Pierangelo: Location Glasgow: Date 2023-08-23

Comments

I have been with shell energy for 3 years and can honestly say it is the worst company I have ever dealt with.

After 2 years they cancelled my contract without my knowledge. I then found out that this resulted from my neighbour accidently putting my flat number which resulted in them terminating my contract. After opening a new contract I experienced a variety of different problems such as my bills being higher than what the contract states and my internet was running significantly slower. The customer service here is appalling.

With all these issues arising every couple of weeks I was constantly on the phone with customer service, every person I spoke with told me something different and I was constantly being told to speak with different departments as no one knows what they are doing. They reopened several contract for me with out my permission and when I wanted to leave the company due to all the hasses and no revolment of any of these issues, they then told me I had to pay for the full termination fee because it was a new contract. As stated above I did not agree to cancel or reopen my contract several times and i now should have been in my original contract for 9 months meaning I should only need to pay for the remaining 9 months ( it is a 18 month contract). But shell energy is insisting I pay for the full 18 month termination fee. I would highly suggest that everyone stays away from this company as they are only looking to scam and make more money

Reviewer Robert tolley: Location Atherstone: Date 2023-08-22

Comments

Absolutely rubbish.
If you move to another room or sit outside your Internet connection is lost. Every time you switch your tv on it comes up no internet connection. This as to be the worst internet company on the market. Glad we are leaving soon.

Los Angeles Times

Sept 18, 2023

California is no stranger to fighting climate change with legal battles. But late last week, state officials announced a truly heavyweight match.

Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against five major oil companies and their trade association, alleging their involvement in “a decades-long campaign of deception and creating statewide climate change-related harms in California.”

Bonta said Exxon Mobil, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and BP — along with the American Petroleum Institute (API) — have long known “that the burning of fossil fuels leads to climate change — but have fed us lies and mistruths to further their record-breaking profits at the expense of our environment.”

“Enough is enough,” Bonta said in a statement. “With our lawsuit, California becomes the largest geographic area and the largest economy to take these giant oil companies to court.”

The 135-page complaint presents several pieces of evidence the state says points to oil companies’ longtime understanding of the effect their products have on the environment.

The suit notes API received a report on environmental pollutants from the Stanford Research Institute in 1968, which stated: “Significant temperature changes are almost certain to occur by the year 2000, and … there seems to be no doubt that the potential damage to our environment could be severe.”

In response to that and other scientific evidence linking fossil fuels to global warming, Big Oil orchestrated disinformation campaigns, the state alleges, “to plant doubt about the reality of climate change in an effort to maintain consumer demand for their fossil fuel products and their large profits.”

What is California hoping to accomplish with the lawsuit? As Times staff writer Louis Sahagún reported:

Gov. Gavin Newsom called out Big Oil in a statementfor “decades of damage and deception.”

“Wildfires wiping out entire communities, toxic smoke clogging our air, deadly heat waves, record-breaking droughts parching our wells,” he said. “California taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the bill.”

In a statement, API Senior Vice President and General Counsel Ryan Meyers called the state’s complaint “a distraction … and an enormous waste of California taxpayer resources.”

“Climate policy is for Congress to debate and decide,” he said, “not the court system.”

Sahagun notes that a “growing number of high-profile cases in state court helped pave the way” for this major legal action from Bonta, including the $246-billion settlement with the tobacco industry in 1998 and a $350-million settlement with manufacturers of lead paint in 2019.

As for how much money state officials are seeking from Big Oil, that’s to be determined for now.

Bonta told The Times: “It is going to be a very, very large number.”

Posted by John Donovan 17 Sept 2023

In an act of sheer audacity, the great state of California has decided to sue some of the world’s most beloved oil and gas companies, including Exxon Mobil, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and BP. Their audacious claim? That these companies misled the public and downplayed the teeny-tiny risks associated with fossil fuels. How dare they suggest such a thing?

This civil lawsuit, filed with a flourish in state Superior Court in San Francisco, has a unique twist: it’s not just about exposing the so-called “deceptions” of Big Oil. No, California wants a fund, and it wants the very companies it’s suing to finance it. This fund will serve as a sort of “Oops, our bad” account for when those pesky storms and fires wreak havoc. After all, it’s only fair that the companies causing climate change also foot the bill for its consequences, right?

Governor Gavin Newsom, that brave champion of climate justice, declared, “For more than 50 years, Big Oil has been lying to us.” But don’t be too quick to judge. Perhaps all those years of deception were just a little white lie, like telling a child that the boogeyman isn’t real. Who doesn’t appreciate a good bedtime story?

The lawsuit alleges that these companies knew since the 1950s that their products could potentially cause a bit of global warming. But instead of shouting it from the rooftops, they kept it to themselves, like a well-guarded secret. They even had the audacity to downplay climate change, suggesting that burning fossil fuels was as harmless as a walk in the park.

Oh, and let’s not forget the American Petroleum Institute, that innocent bystander in all of this. They’re also named in the lawsuit, though they insist that climate policy should be left to the wise minds in Congress. Because, as we all know, the courtroom is no place to address global warming, right?

And what does Shell have to say about this? They’re all about collaboration and society-wide approaches to climate change, of course. They fully support transitioning to a lower-carbon future. Just not in a courtroom. Because, you see, courtrooms are for trivial matters like justice and accountability.

California’s lawsuit, though not the first of its kind, is undoubtedly the most groundbreaking. After all, California is the most populous state in the country and a major oil and gas producer. Their attorney general’s office has a knack for setting trends in legal action, a trend that smaller states simply can’t resist following.

So, there you have it. California’s valiant attempt to bring these oil giants to justice for their decades of climate lies. Will they succeed? Only time will tell. But in the meantime, let’s appreciate the courage it takes to stand up to the fossil fuel industry and demand accountability. Because, after all, who needs a habitable planet when you can have record-breaking profits?

Posted by John Donovan 17 Sept 2023

In a revelation that’s sure to win hearts worldwide, the president of Shell Canada, Susannah Pierce, has imparted her wisdom on the intricacies of decarbonization. According to Pierce, oil and gas companies, those paragons of environmental stewardship, are merely at the mercy of global energy trends. How refreshing!

Pierce, with an air of condescension that only a seasoned executive can muster, graciously acknowledged that while oil and gas firms should make token efforts to reduce emissions, they’re practically stuck in slow motion, like a snail in a race of sloths. Why? Because, dear readers, the rest of the world just can’t seem to keep up with the brilliant minds in the fossil fuel industry.

You see, in Pierce’s insightful view, our beloved global economy still clings desperately to fossil fuels like a child to its security blanket. Apparently, those pesky customers just won’t stop demanding the very products that keep Shell’s coffers overflowing.

But fear not, for Pierce is here to offer her ingenious solution: Let’s wait around twiddling our thumbs until the entire world decides it’s time to kick the oil habit. After all, why should oil and gas companies take the lead in embracing cleaner technologies when they can leisurely sip their coffee and wait for government incentives to magically transform everything?

Oh, but of course, Pierce made sure to mention that these incentives must blanket the entire value chain, especially those fossil fuel-intensive sectors like cement and steel manufacturing, shipping, and aviation. Because who cares about the urgency of climate change when there’s money to be made in polluting industries?

It’s worth noting that Pierce chose this moment to share her pearls of wisdom just days before the 24th World Petroleum Congress in Calgary. The theme? The energy transition, of course! How utterly appropriate for an event that probably considers renewable energy sources a quaint hobby.

In conclusion, we should all applaud Shell for its unwavering dedication to environmental progress. Clearly, the only way they’ll consider decarbonization is when the world miraculously stops craving their fossil-fueled goodies. Until then, let’s keep the planet warm and cozy, just like the hearts of oil executives everywhere.

Posted by John Donovan 17 Sept 2023

In a stunning turn of events that surely took everyone by surprise, Shell has graced us with the news of a cybersecurity “incident” involving its Australian subsidiary, BG Group. It appears that the oil giant is just too modest to call it a full-blown breach.

Yes, you read that correctly. Shell, the paragon of ethical and eco-friendly practices, has found itself entangled in the web of the notorious MOVEit hack. You know, the kind of hack that sends shivers down the spines of sensible folks who dare to transfer their pension information and social security numbers. Just minor stuff, right?

So, let’s delve into this masterclass of cybersecurity excellence. Shell, ever the benevolent guardian of personal data, confessed that some “personal information” had been accessed without proper authorization. But fear not, dear victims, for Shell has valiantly attempted to notify you. Aren’t they just the epitome of responsibility?

But wait, there’s more. Brace yourselves for the plot twist of the century! This “personal information” that was so recklessly mishandled is from the distant past of 2013. A real vintage year for data breaches, one might say. While it might be as outdated as a cassette tape, Shell kindly reminds us that there’s still a risk of identity theft and phishing campaigns. How considerate of them to unearth this treasure trove of bygone data!

But alas, in their moment of crisis, Shell has mysteriously forgotten the exact number of individuals who were impacted. Perhaps the number is so staggeringly large that it defies simple enumeration?

In a shocking turn of events, Shell has been busy informing affected staff members since early July. It’s almost as if they wanted to savor the drama of this incident, prolonging the suspense for their employees. How thoughtful!

And of course, no major “incident” is complete without an expert opinion. Hebe Chen, an analyst with IG Markets, astutely pointed out that this whole ordeal exposed the “fragile protection measures” in Australia’s corporate world. Bravo, Shell! You’ve not only enlightened us about your own cybersecurity prowess but also highlighted the ineffectiveness of an entire nation’s cybersecurity strategy.

So, there you have it, folks. Shell’s cybersecurity “incident” is a shining example of corporate responsibility and data protection. We eagerly await their next misadventure in the world of digital security.

Shell is a repeat offender…

See…

Shell guilty of allowing worlds biggest breach of employee details

And just in case we got anything wrong in this entirely accurate and unbiased piece of journalism, Shell is kindly invited to enlighten us.

Shell Energy Broadband Reviews recently posted on broadband.co.uk

Examples posted by John Donovan 17 Sept 2023

Reviewer Diane Bryant: Location Lowestoft: Date 2023-08-16

Comments

As a vulnerable disabled person who is very reliant on a reliable WiFi, Internet service I totally regret signing up with She’ll Energy as it’s extremely unreliable

Reviewer Gerald: Location Northern Ireland: Date 2023-08-15

Comments

It is beyond absurd the way this company have treated me. After dialogue with this company about renewing my contract I was assured on multiple occasions that the new rate was in place however they continue to charge me at my old rate hence the multiple staff members I have spoken with simply did not do their jobs as they assured me it was changed yet it has not after multiple assurances. What kind of company employs staff who are simply not doing their jobs and lying to customers? I will now seek legal advice in relation to consumer rights as this company is simply not providing what we have agreed upon in the terms of our agreement. Truly shocking in this day and age that a company treats a customer like this.

Reviewer Yuchun: Location Belfast: Date 2023-08-15

Comments

Worst Internet do not get tied into a contract with this company

Reviewer Joe: Location Suffolk: Date 2023-08-15

Comments

Absolutely crap! I was lured by a £95 amazon voucher. The speed is OKish but the router keeps disconnecting my devices and then has a fit itself. When I got the router out of the box I thought it was off wish.com, very cheap looking and apparently also in its operation. I am looking to move next year and am seriously thinking about ‘buying” myself out of the contract early

Shell Energy Broadband Reviews recently posted on broadband.co.uk

Examples posted by John Donovan 13 Sept 2023

Reviewer Billy Loudon: Location St Andrews: Date 2023-08-15

Comments
Worst broadband
Worst customer service

Reviewer Tristan: Location London: Date 2023-08-14

Comments

Utterly awful. Pathetic router which just can’t hold a signal or broadcast to anywhere other than the room it’s in. Far too expensive for the speed you actually get and useless in terms of customer service. Avoid

Reviewer John Redmond: Location Buxton: Date 2023-08-14

Comments

Had no problems until i decided to switch, my broadband suddenly developed a fault and was constantly going on and off, no help whatsoever from customer support, I would advise against using shell energy broadband awful service and poor speeds waste of money cowboy outfit!!!

Reviewer Paul Butterworth: Location Aspatria: Date 2023-08-11

Comments

For me the issue with Shell Broadband is mainly their customer service. If will offer you no grace if you need to change contract and it will always be in their favour. They will charge you FOR EVERYTHING. Admin fees, routers, sending routers back. I consider them the easyjet of flying.

We’ll get you there but you have to pay for extra if you want to sit inside the plane :))

SHELL PRELUDE FLNG OFTEN TOXIC HEADLINES OVER THE LAST DECADE TELL AN OMINOUS STORY 

Posted by John Donovan 9 Sept 2023

The links below are to a series of articles stretching back a decade, some triggered by a well-placed whistleblower directly involved in the  Prelude project. Includes articles by Mr Bill Campbell, the former distinguished HSE Group Auditor of Shell International (now sadly deceased). A good loyal friend, and regular long-term contributor to this website, who I never actually met.

ARTICLE: Voser wisely abandons an unstable ship: 28 December 2013

ARTICLE: Royal Dutch Shell Prelude to disaster?: 10 Jan 2014

ARTICLE: Shell Prelude FLNG: loss of containment of hydrocarbons almost inevitable: 21 Feb 2014

ARTICLE: What should frighten stiff Royal Dutch Shell shareholders: 15 March 2014

ARTICLE: Tales of the Unexpected and Royal Dutch Shell Prelude FLNG: 28 March 2014

ARTICLE: Prelude FLNG: A case of all your eggs in the one basket: 10 July 2014

ARTICLE: Prelude FLNG risks are on par with modern offshore oil and gas facilities say Shell – but are they?: 23 Sept 2014

ARTICLE: Royal Dutch Shell Prelude Project ‘A Step Too Far’: 25 Sept 2014

ARTICLE: SpaceShip Two: Shell Prelude another pioneering venture fraught with risk: 2 November 2014

ARTICLE: WA turns spotlight on FLNG safety: 11 November 2014

ARTICLE: Prelude a giant production and processing barge masquerading as a ship: 11 November 2014

ARTICLE: Sunday Times Article: Prelude a potential white elephant: 11 November 2014

ARTICLE: Damning Verdict on Shell’s Prelude FLNG Propaganda: 12 November 2014

ARTICLE: Combustible pioneering behemoths – the Hindenburg and Shell Prelude: 21 November 2014

ARTICLE: Key role of Shell lawyers in pioneering Shell Prelude FLNG: 05 December 2014

ARTICLE: The Future of Natural Gas: LNG vs. FLNG: 26 Feb 2015

ARTICLE: The Sydney Morning Herald: WA inquiry shines spotlight on floating LNG safety fears: 8 May 2015

ARTICLE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN: Delays slow Prelude’s sail-away: 11 April 2016

ARTICLE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN: Gas industry needs to work harder, innovate: Shell boss: 12 April 2016

ARTICLE: ENERGY VOICE: GE starts production on Shell’s Prelude risers, must withstand a 1-in-10,000-year cyclonic event: 11 April 2016

ARTICLE: THE AUSTRALIAN: Shell chief Ben van Beurden backs FLNG program: 13 April 2016

ARTICLE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN: Enthusiasm cools for Prelude FLNG: 13 April 2016

ARTICLE: BY JOHN DONOVAN: Musings about the OPL 245 Shell/ENI corruption scandal and the sinking confidence in Prelude: 13 April 2016

ARTICLE: BY BILL CAMPBELL: Project Prelude – A case study in the generation of real material debt: 17 April 2016/a>

Hazardex: Shell Australia’s giant Prelude floating LNG project likely to come on stream in 2017: 20 Sept 2016

Australian Government unconvinced about FLNG safety claims: 28 Sept 2016

Shell awards JGC contract for completion of Prelude LNG vessel: 9 Dec 2016

Shell Prelude FLNG project relegated to backburner: 6 May 2017

Shell’s floating LNG facility sets sail from South Korea for Australia: Reuters: 29 June 2017

Royal Dutch Shell’s Prelude floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) ship has left a shipyard in South Korea for its destination offshore northwest Australia, the company said on Thursday.

Shell’s Prelude LNG vessel sets sail: The West Australian: 29 June 2017

Tug boats began towing the 488m Prelude out to sea early this morning from Samsung Heavy Industry’s Geoje shipyard, according to a website monitoring vessel movements.

PRELUDE FLNG; A CASE OF ADDING FUEL TO THE FIRE: 12 July 2017

In Australia, Shell signals new era for LNG: 25 July 2017

Report: Gas could be sidelined by renewables in parts of Australia: 26 July2017

PRELUDE FLNG is a very risky business: 27 July 2017

Alarm Bells: Shell Hydrocarbons continue getting out the box: 1 Aug 2017

Alarming news today of potential fire and explosion on Shell North Sea platform: 2 Aug 2017

Shell cannot say it was not warned about Prelude FLNG: 2 Aug 2017

Shell’s ill-fated $14bn gamble on Titanic Prelude FLNG Barge: 17 Aug 2017

Why Shell Prelude is such a risky gamble!: 18 Aug 2017

Shell’s Prelude Officially Entered into Lloyd’s Register: 23 Aug 2017

Shell Prelude FLNG named as FieldComm Group 2017 Plant of the Year: 6 Nov 2017

Shell damps down Prelude LNG expectations: 29 Nov 2017

The world’s largest-ever vessel is all set to go in 2018: 26 Dec 2018

Is all well with the Shell Prelude FLNG Project? : 21 July 2018

Shell Prelude Anxiety: 31 Aug 2018

Alarm Bells Ring Again About Shell Prelude Safety Issues: 9 Feb 2019

Shell puts safety ahead of LNG production on Prelude: 13 Feb 2019

Expert scepticism about Shell Prelude: 16 Feb 2019

Dutch FT: Retired Shell chief safety officer warns of major Prelude risks: 13 March 2019

Royal Dutch Shell Prelude FLNG News: 25 March 2019: 25 March 2019

BILL CAMPBELL CREDENTIALS: 1 May 2019

The arsonist complains about the diligence of the fire brigade: 19 May 2019

Shell Prelude boss Rob Jager talks about the world’s biggest offshore facility: 24 May 2019

Shell Prelude, suddenly, everything is not so tickety-boo: 26 May 2019

Reuters: Shipping of first LNG cargo from Australia’s Prelude project is “imminent” – Shell: 5 June 2019

Shell Prelude Problems? Good luck guys!: 7 June 2019

LNG tanker poised to load first cargo at Prelude FLNG, Australia8 June 2019

Dangerous Occurrence: Facts About Shell Prelude Problems: 8 June 2019

Shell ships long-awaited first LNG cargo from Australia’s Prelude: 11 June 2019

REUTERS: Shell sees more opportunities for floating LNG after Prelude delays: 19 June 2019

Second LNG cargo from Prelude – still trouble at mill?: 7 July 2019

Shell confirms no impact to Prelude floating LNG facility as a result of Broome earthquake: 16 July 2019

Upstream Online: Shell learns from Prelude challenges?: 23 Aug 2019

Shell Prelude claims are ridiculous make-believe nonsensical drivel?: 30 Aug 2019

Shell Prelude FLNG: Not bad for an evil company ……!: 14 Nov 2019

Australian workers concerned Prelude jobs going overseas: 4 Dec 2019

Shell Expands Resource Base for Prelude LNG: 24 Dec 2019

Fears there could be a loss of hydrocarbons from the Shell Prelude facility: 29 Jan 2020

Alarming warning to the Australian National Offshore Petroleum and Environmental Management Authority about Shell Prelude Project: 31 Jan 2020

Retired Shell Global Safety Consultant says concerns expressed by Australian Regulator (NOSPEMA) about Shell Prelude fully justified: 2 Feb 2020

(Please read in conjunction with the recent comments made by Bill Campbell in the article Alarming warning to the Australian National Offshore Petroleum and Environmental Management Authority about Shell Prelude Project)

Shell Prelude it appears has inherited the North Sea chronic disease of loss of containment: 3 Feb 2020

Prelude alarm bells should be ringing at Shell HQ: 3 Feb 2020

Reuters: Shell temporarily suspends Prelude LNG production following electrical trip: 4 Feb 2020

Shell’s shut down of Prelude – seems alarm bells were indeed ringing, as we suggested just hours ago: 4 Feb 2020

Prelude shutdown: 5 Feb 2020

LATEST EXPERT THOUGHTS ON PRELUDE EMERGENCY SHUT DOWN: 5 Feb 2020

Offshore Alliance claim Shell’s Prelude FLNG thrusters broken: 6 Feb 2020

Reuters: UPDATE 1-Shell temporarily suspends LNG liftings from Prelude off Australia: 18 Feb 2020

ENB: Prelude to remain shut three more weeks: regulator: 19 Feb 2020

Shell’s Prelude LNG is a carbon disaster: 26 March 2020

Shell’s Prelude LNG is a carbon disaster: 26 March 2020

upstreamonline: Prelude floating LNG giant still offline after two months: 2 April 2020

Significant risk to the health and safety of persons at the Shell Prelude FLNG Facility: 22 April 2020

Poor choices and dud projects trigger calls for a Van Beurden succession plan?: 6 May 2020

Reuters: Virus lockdowns pummel global gas demand, force LNG output cuts: 7 May 2020

No winners from Shell’s $US17B Prelude floating LNG: 15 May 2020

Shell Prelude FLNG fiasco, late, expensive, dirty, unreliable and dangerous: 16 May 2020

Union plans ‘protected action’ strike aboard Shell’s Prelude floating LNG: 20 May 2020

Shell’s Prelude floating LNG plant out of action for several months?5 June 2020

Maybe the Shell job cuts should start at the top?: 13 June 2020

Shell’s Prelude FLNG project exec, Rob Jager, to depart: 22 June 2020

Shell hasn’t exported any cargoes from Prelude FLNG for almost five months: 23 June 2020

Shell’s $12 Billion LNG Experiment Becomes A Big Headache: 23 June 2020

Successive Shell CEO’s cannot say that they were not warned time and again about the Prelude experiment: 23 June 2020

Prelude S*** Storm: 25 June 2020

Shell slashes valuation of oil and gas assets amid coronavirus crisis: 2 July 2020

Trailblazing gas project looks like a costly hangover from the past: 2 July 2020

Australia bears biggest brunt of Shell write-down: 3 July 2020

Shell Prelude in Stormy Weather Again: 9 July 2020

Shell sends top HR man to Prelude in the hope of quelling mutiny: 9 July 2020

Shell’s Big Bet On Prelude Floating LNG May Be A Flop: 15 July 2020

Workforce strike at Shell’s Prelude confirmed: 21 July 2020

Union Strike on Prelude FLNG: 28 July 2020

Shell posts $18billion loss in second quarter: 30 July 2020

Shell tries to bribe Prelude workers with $50,000 one-off payment: 7 Aug 2020

World’s largest floating LNG factory remains in shutdown — at just three years old: 21 Aug 2020

Coronavirus Further Complicates Shell’s Giant Floating Gas Project: 22 Aug 2020

Shell begins restart activity at Prelude FLNG: 4 Sept 2020

Shell Australia attempts to bring Prelude FLNG back online: 7 Sept 2020

Shell Resumes Work at Prelude Floating LNG Facility: 8 Sept 2020

Shell booked $11 billion in writedowns on its gas business, mostly on its Australian Prelude floating LNG: 15 Sept 2020

Shell’s Prelude FLNG becomes a big headache! (By BILL CAMPBELL): 5 Oct 2020

Prelude FLNG maintenance workers to go on strike: 8 Oct 2020

Shell’s Australian Prelude LNG will not resume shipping LNG this year: 15 Oct 2020

Is Shell’s $17 Billion Bet On Floating LNG A Flop?: 16 Oct 2020

Prelude will not resume full production this year, says Shell: 22 Oct 2020

SHELL TAKES GIANT WRITEDOWN ON PRELUDE: 29 Oct 2020

XR activists protest Prelude “death machine”: 9 November 2020

Australia’s LNG exports at nine-month high: 4 Dec 2020

Shell Australia and unions to commence formal EBA bargaining: 4 Dec 2020

Shell to write down assets again, taking cuts to more than $22 billion: 21 Dec 2020

Shell resumes gas shipments from world’s largest floating structure: 11 Jan 2021

Shell Restarts Production At Huge Prelude Project As LNG Prices Soar: 11 Jan 2021

Australia’s Prelude FLNG shipments resume: Shell: 12 Jan 2021

Two LNG Tankers Bound for Australia’s Prelude Facility Divert?: 21 Jan 2021

UPDATE 1-Two LNG tankers bound for Australia’s Prelude facility divert-shiptracking data: 22 Jan 2021

MYSTERY OF SUDDEN DIVERSION OF LNG TANKERS BOUND FOR SHELL’S TROUBLED PRELUDE FLNG : 22 Jan 2021

LNG production at Shell’s Prelude gas processing plant in Western Australia restarts following 11-month closure: 24 Jan 2021

Prelude: A year of working dangerously: 5 Feb 2021

Shell predicts free gas forever from Gorgon and Prelude LNG projects: 31 March 2021

Shell’s $12 Billion Prelude LNG Barge Drifts Toward A Finale: 26 April 2021

Sleep-deprived Prelude workers complain to offshore regulator: 19 July 2021

Shell’s giant $24b Prelude LNG ship shut down after fire: 3 Dec 2021

Shell’s Prelude LNG vessel shuts operations, staff evacuation underway after electrical fire: 5 Dec 2021

Shell evacuates Prelude floating LNG plant after power outage: 6 Dec 2021

The Prelude debacle: 8 Dec 2021

How Shell lost control of its $24B Prelude floating gas factory: 21 Dec 2021

Shell ordered to shut down Prelude floating LNG until it is safe: 24 Dec 2021

SHELL PRELUDE WHITE ELEPHANT24 Dec 2021

Prelude FLNG Remains Shut In Until Shell Makes It Safe For Work: 27 Dec 2021

Australia Tells Shell to Keep Prelude FLNG Unit Offline Until It’s Proven Safe for Workers: 26 Dec 2021

The Many Growing Pains of Shell’s Prelude FLNG Continue:4 Jan 2022

Shell’s Prelude gas vessel faced ‘catastrophic failure’ from power outage: 5 Jan 2022

Alarm Bells Still Ringing About Shell Prelude: 7 Jan 2022

Will Shell have to abandon the Prelude experiment?: 8 Jan 2022

Prelude FLNG Inquiry into safety by WA Government: 8 Jan 2022

NOPSEMA data up to 2020 shows dangerous occurrences on Shell Prelude FLNG being reported every 20 days or so?: 10 Jan 2022

Further expert comment on the Shell Prelude debacle: 11 Jan 2022

Shell’s Prelude FLNG risked major failure due to power issues13 Jan 2022

Shell Prelude Meltdown: Something went very badly wrong here…14 Jan 2022

Almost…no tax or LNG royalties from… Shell’s Prelude projects?: 16 Jan 2022

Prelude FLNG to Stay Shut in 1Q 2022: 17 Jan 2022

Prelude FLNG to Stay Shut in 1Q 2022: 5 Feb 2022

Prelude going through ‘teething troubles’ says deceiver Ben van Beurden: 7 Feb 2022

Coming soon: The Hindenburg, The Titanic and Shell Prelude FLNG: 8 Feb 2022

John Donovan, his website royaldutchshellplc.com and his main contributor on Shell safety issues, Bill Campbell: 13 Feb 2022

Shell’s Prelude FLNG to remain offline for most of Q1: Ben van Beurden: 15 Feb 2022

More Prelude power issues “foreseeable and credible” : 24 Feb 2022

The Hindenburg, The Titanic and Shell Prelude FLNG: 1 March 2022

Shell Playing With Fire On PRELUDE FLNG: 19 March 2022

Shell (SHEL) Gets Nod to Restart Production at Prelude FLNG: 29 March 2022

Shell resumes shipping LNG from Prelude off Australia: 11 April 2022

Shell restarts shipments from Australia’s Prelude FLNG: 11 April 2022

Shell restarts LNG shipments from giant floating gas site: 13 April 2022

Oil giant Shell feels heat over giant $21 billion Prelude floating LNG plant: 26 April 2022

Shell, Seven Group invest $3.5b in Crux gas for Prelude as unions take action: 30 May 2022

Shell to develop Crux project in Western Australia: 30 May 2022

Shell sends ‘thug’ to stop industrial strike action on Prelude FLNG, says labor union: 2 June 2022

Serious fire dangers at Prelude FLNG: 8 June 2022

Prelude potentially facing another shut down ” 9 June 2022

Shell’s Prelude gas ship hit by safety, crewing and industrial problems: 10 June 2022

Dispute stops cargoes at Shell’s huge floating LNG plant: 28 June 2022

Shell says Prelude LNG shipments disrupted until at least mid-July: 29 June 2022

Shell Warns Of Prelude LNG Disruptions: 29 June 2022

Shell ships LNG from Australia’s Prelude despite staff stoppages: 8 July 2022

Shell to shut LNG vessel after workers reject $30,000 a year pay rise: 11 July 2022

Shell halts production on floating gas platform Prelude amid worsening industrial dispute: 12 July 2022

Shell to Shut Prelude FLNG Over Industrial Dispute: 13 July 2022

Shell to enforce lockout on Prelude as industrial dispute escalates: 20 July 2022

Shell drops plans to lock out Prelude workers from Western Australian offshore gas facility: 26 July 2022

Shell Prelude’s two-month $500m strike delays major maintenance9 Aug 2022

Shell Prelude FLNG. The most unreliable Offshore installation ever built…: 12 Aug 2022

Prelude is simultaneously a stellar engineering achievement and a financial black hole: 13 Aug 2022

Shell Postpones Prelude LNG Turnaround Until Next Year: 15 Aug 2022

Shell Prelude “White Elephant”: 18 Aug 2022

Shell, unions reach agreement in Prelude gas facility industrial dispute: 24 Aug 2022

Shell’s Prelude FLNG off Australia resumes LNG production, shipments: 19 Sept 2022

Shell restarts Australian Prelude LNG loadings: 19 Sept 2022

Hellish working conditions on board world’s biggest offshore gas site, Prelude: 15 November 2022

Shell suspends production at Prelude FLNG after fire breaks out: 22 Dec 2022

Shell’s Prelude FLNG in Australia Still Offline After December Fire: 14 Jan 2023

Shell Prelude Fires: 18 Jan 2023

Shell’s Prelude FLNG Restarts First Cargo Since Fire: 24 Jan 2023

Shell CEO creates chief of staff role in management overhaul: 24 Feb 2023

Shell’s $21 Billion Prelude Floating LNG Plant Debacle: 18 June 2023

Shell exposes its Prelude workers to the exhilarating risk of fire and explosion: 24 July 2023

Prelude workers exposed to “hydrocarbon gas fire or explosion”: 1 Aug 2023

REGULARLY UPDATED

SHELL CAN NOT SAY IT WAS NOT WARNED TIME AND AGAIN ABOUT PRELUDE SAFETY ISSUES

Posted by John Donovan

7 Sept 2023

In an act that can only be described as a masterclass in cutting corners, Shell decided against shutting down its prodigious Prelude liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility off Australia for a whole year to rectify the myriad issues plaguing its operations. Why bother with such trivial matters as design flaws and safety when there’s money to be made, am I right?

Instead, Shell opted for a shorter, two-month maintenance plan because apparently “strong gas demand” is a suitable reason to ignore the ever-persistent problems.

Ah, the Prelude facility—its deck is longer than four soccer fields, isn’t it a marvel? At an estimated cost of over $12 billion, it’s no wonder that they can’t afford to pause operations for extensive repairs. The floating mega-barge situated 475 km (300 miles) off Australia’s coast has had its share of ‘bad luck’ since it began operations in June 2019. From a fire causing a full power loss in December 2021 to multiple outages, it’s practically a tradition at this point.

Now, industry insiders reveal that this two-month “quickie” in maintenance will not cover all design issues. But, you know, it’s just a 3.6-million-ton-per-year LNG plant. What could possibly go wrong if it keeps experiencing operational issues?

Shell’s justification is a classic: The company didn’t want to miss out on sales of LNG in times of high demand. How noble of them! It’s not like long-term reliability would ever be beneficial for their financial statements or anything.

Shell CEO Wael Sawan, who previously led the company’s glorious LNG division, assumed office in January and vowed to improve operational reliability and boost financial performance. Given the circumstances, one might wonder how loosely Shell defines the term “improvement.”

Their spokesperson explained that “turnarounds are a regular part of maintaining LNG facilities and are planned well in advance.” It’s just that their “well in advance” planning skipped 2022 due to industrial action and “cyclone season.” Perhaps Mother Nature is sending signals that even she doesn’t want the plant operating?

According to accurate calculations, the Prelude facility has been shut down for at least 500 days since its grand launch. But don’t worry, Shell assures us that they are focusing on “urgent and significant problems” during the current maintenance. The other not-so-significant reliability issues will likely just have to stand in line for their turn, possibly leading to more outages.

Cederic Cremers, the executive vice president of Shell’s LNG business, let us know that they’ve seen “very strong improvement over the first half of the year.” What metric they’re using for ‘improvement’ remains a mystery that perhaps only the deep ocean could solve.

In summary, hats off to Shell for demonstrating how to give lip service to “sustainability” while letting the world’s first floating LNG facility float aimlessly through a sea of problems.

By the way, should Shell find any tiny inaccuracies here (not that we’d ever exaggerate), they’re most welcome to correct us.

ARTICLE ENDS

The links below are to a series of related articles stretching back almost a decade, some triggered by a well-placed whistleblower directly involved in the  Prelude project. Includes articles by Mr Bill Campbell (right), the former distinguished HSE Group Auditor of Shell International (now sadly deceased). A good loyal friend that I never met.

ARTICLE: Voser wisely abandons an unstable ship: 28 December 2013

ARTICLE: Royal Dutch Shell Prelude to disaster?: 10 Jan 2014

ARTICLE: Shell Prelude FLNG: loss of containment of hydrocarbons almost inevitable: 21 Feb 2014

ARTICLE: What should frighten stiff Royal Dutch Shell shareholders: 15 March 2014

ARTICLE: Tales of the Unexpected and Royal Dutch Shell Prelude FLNG: 28 March 2014

ARTICLE: Prelude FLNG: A case of all your eggs in the one basket: 10 July 2014

ARTICLE: Prelude FLNG risks are on par with modern offshore oil and gas facilities say Shell – but are they?: 23 Sept 2014

ARTICLE: Royal Dutch Shell Prelude Project ‘A Step Too Far’: 25 Sept 2014

ARTICLE: SpaceShip Two: Shell Prelude another pioneering venture fraught with risk: 2 November 2014

ARTICLE: WA turns spotlight on FLNG safety: 11 November 2014

ARTICLE: Prelude a giant production and processing barge masquerading as a ship: 11 November 2014

ARTICLE: Sunday Times Article: Prelude a potential white elephant: 11 November 2014

ARTICLE: Damning Verdict on Shell’s Prelude FLNG Propaganda: 12 November 2014

ARTICLE: Combustible pioneering behemoths – the Hindenburg and Shell Prelude: 21 November 2014

ARTICLE: Key role of Shell lawyers in pioneering Shell Prelude FLNG: 05 December 2014

ARTICLE: The Future of Natural Gas: LNG vs. FLNG: 26 Feb 2015

ARTICLE: The Sydney Morning Herald: WA inquiry shines spotlight on floating LNG safety fears: 8 May 2015

ARTICLE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN: Delays slow Prelude’s sail-away: 11 April 2016

ARTICLE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN: Gas industry needs to work harder, innovate: Shell boss: 12 April 2016

ARTICLE: ENERGY VOICE: GE starts production on Shell’s Prelude risers, must withstand a 1-in-10,000-year cyclonic event: 11 April 2016

ARTICLE: THE AUSTRALIAN: Shell chief Ben van Beurden backs FLNG program:13 April 2016

ARTICLE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN: Enthusiasm cools for Prelude FLNG: 13 April 2016

ARTICLE: BY JOHN DONOVAN: Musings about the OPL 245 Shell/ENI corruption scandal and the sinking confidence in Prelude: 13 April 2016

ARTICLE: BY BILL CAMPBELL: Project Prelude – A case study in the generation of real material debt: 17 April 2016/a>

Hazardex: Shell Australia’s giant Prelude floating LNG project likely to come on stream in 2017: 20 Sept 2016

Shell Energy Broadband Reviews recently posted on broadband.co.uk

Examples posted by John Donovan 5 Sept 2023

Reviewer Luis Navarro: Location London NW1 8UB: Date 2023-08-09

Comments

Contracted Shell broadband over a month ago for offer of £26.99. Engineer booked for 9th August 2023, between 8 as m and 1pm, they did not turn up, on phoning them the lame excuse that it had been cancelled by them and apologising for not informing me. Utterly Useless!!!!! WASTE OF TIME!!!!

Reviewer uj: Location Camberley: Date 2023-08-09

Comments

shell broadband kept on cancelling my order , because of them i was without broadband for 1months +….existing broadnand provider disabled their services in order for shell to switch …and shell cancelled my order on the switch day….dodgy …

Reviewer Stephen: Location Dorset: Date 2023-08-08

Comments

It is difficult to imagine a more lamentable customer service than this company provides. On line, it is not even possible to state your issues as all potential avenues of engagement utilise inappropriate auto responses.

Reviewer Nic: Location Chesterfield: Date 2023-08-08

Comments

If I could give 0 stars I would. I’m currently managing a complaint for my 79 year old grandmother who accidentally cancelled her direct debit. We set it back up the same day and were assured there were no issues. We are now 7 weeks later. Multiple new contracts cancelled. Great stress for my grandmother. They’ve told her she needs a new landline and they’ll get her old one back after only to be told this is not the case. A landline
she’s had for 50 years. Customer service is shocking and the staff incompetent and unable to follow the most basic of requests. I will never go to this company or recommend them.

Posted by John Donovan 1 Sept 2023

After years of trying so hard to save the world one fossil fuel at a time, Shell has decided to take a break. Yes, the philanthropic oil tycoon is selling its home energy business in the U.K. and Germany to Octopus Energy for an undisclosed sum. What’s the reason for the secrecy? 

Shell proclaimed that it’s expecting this saintly transaction to conclude in the fourth quarter of the year, right after they get the nod from the regulators. The company had already announced back in June that it was planning to pull its home energy retail unit out of the U.K., Netherlands, and Germany. Finally, after powering 6.5 million homes in Britain with their incredible insight into energy supply, Octopus Energy will take up Shell’s philanthropic mantle.

The deal, a meeting of two great energy titans, will include 500,000 broadband customers, because who wouldn’t want to get their broadband from an oil company? Shell Energy Retail Limited in the UK and Shell Energy Retail GmbH in Germany have been gallantly providing domestic gas, power, and broadband services under the Shell Energy brand, because when you think broadband, you naturally think Shell.

The unloading of customers is “part of a deal in which the two companies explore a partnership on EV charging,” Shell said, a move which no doubt aligns with their relentless focus on environmental preservation. Returns in the British energy retail sector have been under pressure recently, but no worries. Shell’s still got its main gig: oil and gas.

Octopus Energy will thus expand its customer base in Germany to almost 300,000. Octopus, which is the only Which?-recommended energy supplier in the UK, had already added a hefty 1.5 million customers last year. Greg Jackson, the chief executive of Octopus, said, “Our commitment to customers is paramount and we will do whatever it takes to deliver the Octopus promise when we welcome these new customers too.”

Steve Hill, executive vice president at Shell Energy, eloquently stated, “To drive performance, discipline and simplification, we are prioritising countries, projects, and routes to market where we can deliver the most value.” That’s a fancy way of saying they’re leaving the business of powering your home to others while they stick to what they know best: fossil fuels and fabulous profits.

So fear not, dear customers of Shell. You’ll be transferred to Octopus Energy after all regulatory approvals come through, and you’ll be contacted at that time, the company assures. You’re just a number in a large spreadsheet anyway.

Shell and any other party mentioned are invited to point out for correction any factual inaccuracies.

The still live website that hastened Shell’s departure?

Posted by John Donovan 1 Sept 2023

Bravo, Shell! Six months after Wael Sawan stepped into the captain’s chair as the CEO, he made a groundbreaking decision to quietly sunset that pesky carbon offset initiative, the world’s biggest corporate plan of its kind. Because why save the planet when you can save a dime? At an all-day investor gala (don’t you just love those?), Sawan somehow “forgot” to mention the company’s previous aim to cough up US$100 million a year for carbon credits. Oopsie-doodle!

This strategic “oversight” follows a scintillating pattern, as Shell also discarded their grand plan to amass a staggering 120 million carbon credits a year by the end of this decade. That would’ve covered a measly 10% of their emissions. No new targets? No worries, Shell has retired its ambition to be a climate leader faster than one of its offshore oil rigs.

The company’s pulling back on carbon offsets also reveals the courage to admit the unattainable: they barely made a dent in their own goals. They spent only US$95 million, just about half of their initial “commitment.” How did they manage to blow so much money and accomplish so little? By investing in projects from Western Africa to the Brazilian Amazon to Australian farmlands, of course. Projects that Shell insisted met its “quality standards,” although those projects generated “few if any offsets.” 

Flora Ji, who’s run Shell’s “nature-based solutions” since 2021, graciously told us beforehand that, “It didn’t have that kind of huge, exponential growth we expected.” No kidding! Turns out those lofty climate goals were just for show. 

Now, Shell still dares to maintain that “the increase in demand for carbon credits should be matched by the need for quality.” Bless their hearts, they’re still focused on quality over quantity, especially when it comes to excuses.

The company’s old carbon projects? They were a mere “dangerous scam” according to some critics, but Shell tried to do it the “right” way. They took a conservative approach to estimated deforestation, evaluated long-term management, and ensured fair revenue sharing. But alas, who has time for such trivial matters when there are profits to be made?

CEO Sawan has indeed softened some of his predecessor’s burdensome environmental priorities. Shell’s latest environmental vision includes not just scrapping carbon offset goals, but also sidelining investments in renewable energy and silently abandoning EV charge point and clean hydrogen sales targets. It’s like a hit parade of “not gonna happen.”

Adam Matthews, chief responsible investment officer at the Church of England Pensions Board, sums it up best: “They’re no longer aligned with trying to navigate the transition in the same way that we had previously perceived.” Perhaps they were never aligned to begin with.

So here’s to Shell—continuing to redefine ‘corporate responsibility’ in a way that only they can. Remember, Shell’s sustainability and climate targets still “remain,” according to a company spokesman. They just forgot to tell us what those are now. Cheers to opacity and profit!

Shell and any other party are invited to correct us if we’re wrong. But when you’re this committed to not committing, what’s there to correct?

Posted by John Donovan 31 August 2023

Well, aren’t we in for a treat!

It seems the world’s most environmentally-conscious buddies, our friendly neighbourhood oil giants like BP, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies, are diving deep into the influencer market. Because when you think “innovation in renewable energy,” you naturally think: “Instagram and TikTok!”

AFP has sniffed out a trend where icons of video game walkthroughs, doggo videos, and #VacationGoals are suddenly pivoting to plug gas stations and fuel rewards cards. Because, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want a behind-the-scenes look at your favourite influencer’s exhilarating journey to the pump?

And DeSmog? Oh, they had an even juicier tidbit. More than 100 influencers are now on this eco-friendly bandwagon, including a charming Filipina grandma who, until recently, was just sharing her family’s antics. But who needs cute grandkids when you can have the glossy sheen of oil?

So why this sudden courtship of Gen Z and Millennial influencers? The logic, according to analysts cited by AFP, is crystal clear. With the youth nowadays all obsessed with this minor inconvenience called ‘global warming’, Big Oil’s image has taken a teeny-tiny hit. Hence, they’re out here trying to build ‘social capital’. Because nothing says “We care about the planet” quite like a sponsored post sandwiched between a makeup tutorial and a dance challenge.

When cornered for their ingenious marketing tactics, ExxonMobil’s spokesperson had this enlightening input: “ExxonMobil, like many companies, works with influencers to educate consumers about the full benefits of our fuel rewards program.” Well, colour us educated!

And Shell? Ever the mysterious one, their unnamed spokesperson mentioned promoting their “low-carbon products” on social media, though oddly seemed to forget to give examples. A minor oversight, I’m sure.

Any objections or corrections, Big Oil? We’re all ears. Or should we check TikTok?