In June 2025, Equinor and Shell announced the creation of Adura, a joint venture poised to become the UK North Sea’s largest independent oil and gas producer.
First revealed in December 2024, Adura merges the offshore oil and gas assets and expertise of two energy giants to sustain domestic production and enhance UK energy security.
Headquartered at the Silver Fin building in Aberdeen, Adura is deeply rooted in the city’s legacy as the UK’s energy capital.
The name Adura, combining the “A” of Aberdeen with the “dura” of durability, reflects the venture’s foundation in the granite-strong energy community and its commitment to the North Sea’s long-term future.
The company will manage key assets, including Equinor’s stakes in Mariner and Buzzard and Shell’s interests in Shearwater, Penguins, Gannet, Nelson, Pierce, Victory, Clair, and Schiehallion, alongside various exploration licenses.
Adura is projected to produce over 140,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025, with ambitions to reach 200,000–220,000 boed within five years as new projects come online.
Since its naming, Adura has progressed toward its planned launch by the end of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
Approximately 1,300 employees from Equinor and Shell are transitioning to the venture, with Shell staff already based at Silver Fin and Equinor’s workforce relocating from Kingswells in phases through 2026.
This move reinforces Aberdeen’s role as a global hub for energy expertise. Equinor’s £6bn in deferred tax losses will bolster Adura’s financial flexibility, while Shell’s robust production capacity enhances cash flow, positioning the venture for cost-competitive operations in a maturing basin.
Camilla Salthe, senior vice president Equinor UK Upstream, said, “We are so pleased to have reached this major milestone in the creation of the new company with Shell. For us, the name Adura represents the very heart of this company and speaks to its people and place within the energy community anchored in Aberdeen, alongside its longevity and commitment to the North Sea.”
Simon Roddy, senior vice president Shell UK Upstream, said, “Adura takes an exciting step forward today as we unveil its new name – rooted in a proud history in the North Sea and looking forward with confidence to delivering secure energy for the UK for many years to come.When Adura launches later this year it will become the UK’s largest independent producer. Through combining assets and expertise, we will create a robust portfolio, with a shared purpose, to unlock long term value.”
