SLB and Shell Forge Strategic Partnership to Accelerate AI‑Powered Upstream Solutions

SLB
December 11, 2025

SLB N.V. and Shell announced a strategic collaboration to develop digital and artificial‑intelligence tools that will enhance performance and efficiency across upstream oil and gas operations. The partnership will leverage SLB’s Lumi data and AI platform to create agentic AI solutions that can autonomously perform tasks and support decision‑making for technical experts.

The agreement builds on a prior technical collaboration in which SLB deployed its Petrel subsurface software across Shell’s global assets. By combining SLB’s advanced AI platform with Shell’s extensive upstream footprint, the two companies aim to accelerate the deployment of AI‑driven solutions in exploration, drilling, and reservoir management.

AI adoption is a key trend in the oil and gas sector, with Shell already operating more than 100 AI applications. SLB’s Lumi platform, launched in September 2024, is designed to integrate AI capabilities with energy‑value‑chain workflows, providing a unified data and AI infrastructure that can be scaled across the industry.

The partnership positions both firms to improve operational efficiency, safety, and decision‑making in upstream activities. For SLB, it expands its digital footprint and strengthens its competitive position against other AI‑focused service providers. For Shell, it deepens its AI capabilities, supporting its broader digital transformation strategy and helping the company maintain a technological edge.

Rakesh Jaggi, president of SLB’s digital business, said the collaboration will accelerate the development of advanced digital and agentic AI solutions that are changing how the industry works through automation and autonomy. The partnership signals a continued focus on integrating advanced technology into core upstream services.

No immediate market reaction has been reported, but the announcement underscores the growing importance of AI in the upstream sector and the strategic importance of the partnership for both companies.

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