The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : ‘There is no dearth of oil or energy sources’

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Friday, Jun 13, 2008
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‘There is no dearth of oil or energy sources’

Deepa Kurup

Technology is key to solving the world’s energy problems: scientist

Sergio Kapusta

Bangalore: It is rather uncharacteristic to have a scientist say that he wishes there was a magic powder that could solve the energy crisis or reduce global warming. Sergio Kapusta, one of the eight chief scientists at Royal Dutch Shell and Manager of Innovation and Technology at Shell Global Solutions International BV, in The Hague, says that he is serious about global warming. He does not believe in easy nor instant solutions but he is positive that his work will help build a bridge towards a better future.

In an interview with The Hindu, Mr. Kapusta speaks about everything from Shell’s latest research work to his personal projects in material sciences and corrosion. With Shell making its India centre one of its three key research domains besides those in Houston and the Netherlands, Mr. Kapusta feels that technology is key to solving the world’s energy problems.

“There is no dearth of oil or energy sources in the world. However, it has become difficult to obtain these fuels, which means more expenditure,” he explains. This is where technology and research can really make a mark, he says.

While Mr. Kapusta believes that renewable energy has a substantial role to play, he is quick to point out that oil and natural gas will be the bridge that takes us there.

What will the world look like at the end of this century? “I guess there will be electric cars on the roads. What we are now trying to do is to build a bridge to get us to that beautiful picture,” he says with passion.

Reducing waste

Despite its proclaimed concerns over climate change, Shell is not perceived as an environment-friendly corporation. Though Mr. Kapusta says that he cannot comment on Shell’s controversial policies in Nigeria or elsewhere, he is willing to talk about how his work helps make a difference or at least mitigate the damages. “We are using technologies to reduce flaring in Nigeria. Previously, we used to flare the gas. Now we are finding more efficient methods of capturing and liquefying gas. This reduces waste and increases products and revenue. Everything around you is made up of material. The catch is how to use it efficiently and less harmfully,” he says.

How does his personal volume or work in material sciences work towards solving the oil crisis we have today? “To use better material means more efficient extraction and better economics,” he says. For instance, with Shell getting into ultra deep water, it becomes necessary to use material that are lighter and can withstand more pressure. “We learn that from aerospace where composites have been used to make lighter and more resilient machines,” he explains.

Mr. Kapusta believes that there has been no better time and opportunity for a scientist in this sector. “I remember being young and wanting to change the world,” he says. “Now here is the chance to do it. You have to take all this research and put it to work. It will take time, but it will happen,” he says.

What does Shell think about the future of alternative fuels? “Our approach is chalked out. We do not compete with food but we use residues and are looking at efficient, cost-effective ways to convert it into fuel,” he says.

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