Shell and Codexis Develop New Enzymes for Cellulosic Biofuels

The five-year agreement between the two energy companies will focus on adapting enzymes to improve the conversion of a range of raw materials into high-performance fuels. Shell has recently expressed interest in developing the next generation of biofuels and has begun exploring a number of non-food bio materials, new conversion processes and alternative fuel products.

Codexis has worked with Shell on biofuels since November 2006. Both companies said they have achieved positive early results, which have led to this new agreement and the broader collaboration announced yesterday.

"Codexis' proven biocatalytic technology provides a powerful discovery pathway for development of next generation biofuels from renewable resources,” said Dr. Alan Shaw, President and CEO of Codexis.

"In the first year of our collaboration, we have demonstrated the ability to solve complex technical challenges critical to successful biofuels development and commercialization. We look forward to continuing our work with Shell to bring clean, renewable liquid transportation fuels to the marketplace," added Shaw.