The oil and gas transportation industry in Europe is crucial for moving energy products across the continent. Companies range from major corporations like Shell to specialized mid-market players. They operate pipelines, tankers, and logistics services to ensure efficient fuel delivery. As Europe shifts toward greener energy solutions, the industry is adapting to meet new sustainability regulations and demands. Advanced technology is being integrated for safer and more efficient operations. Additionally, the increase in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure is reshaping the market, presenting unique opportunities for innovative investment strategies and partnerships.


This article features a mix of investors in the oil and gas transportation sector, including corporate giants and private equity firms. Representing locations from London to Luxembourg, these investors vary in size from small firms to large corporations. Founded over several decades, many are established players in their fields. Collectively, they recorded numerous deals in 2024, focusing on supporting operational expansion and sustainable projects. Investors like TotalEnergies and EQT Group highlight both the strategic interest in energy infrastructure and the ongoing market evolution.


Top 15 Oil and Gas Transportation Investors in Europe


1. Shell

  • Website: shell.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1907
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: shell

Shell plc is a multinational oil and gas company based in London, England, founded in 1907. It operates across the energy and chemicals sectors, providing essential products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical solutions to businesses and consumers worldwide. Shell is heavily involved in the extraction, refining, and distribution of oil and gas, serving a diverse range of industries globally. Notably, Shell's acquisition of Equilon in 2001, which made them the largest petrol retailer in the US, and their purchase of Total's 26% stake in the Hazira LNG terminal in India in 2019, underscore their commitment to expanding their oil and gas transportation capabilities. Additionally, their acquisition of Petromanas Energy Inc. further solidifies their position in the upstream oil sector, enhancing their overall portfolio in the oil and gas industry.


2. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB), founded in 1958 and based in Luxembourg, is a public entity that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services. The EIB aims to support sustainable projects across various sectors, promoting growth and job creation for both public and private organizations. In recent years, the EIB has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to the oil and gas transportation sector. For instance, it provided debt financing to Repsol Energy Ventures, raising approximately $635 million in July 2023, which is directly linked to the oil and gas industry. Additionally, the EIB participated in financing for Orlen, which raised around $219 million in post-IPO debt in November 2024, and for Depa, which secured over $423 million in debt financing in July 2024. These transactions highlight the EIB's active role in supporting companies within the oil and gas transportation space, despite its broader focus on sustainable projects.


3. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the oil and gas transportation sector, including the acquisition of Equitrans Midstream Corporation for approximately $5.5 billion, which enhances its operational capabilities in natural gas transportation. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of Swedegas aims to strengthen the Swedish gas market, further highlighting its commitment to the oil and gas industry. Other relevant transactions include the acquisition of Contanda Terminals and Aker Solutions, which also align with its strategic interests in energy and infrastructure.


4. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, UK, founded in 2011. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies within the oil and gas sector, including ROVOP, which received a significant funding boost to expand its fleet of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for subsea operations. Additionally, BGF has invested in Magma Global, a manufacturer of carbon fibre pipes specifically for the oil and gas industry, supporting their manufacturing capabilities. Other relevant investments include funding for Aubin Group, which operates in the oil and gas service sector, and Glacier Energy Services, further showcasing BGF's commitment to the oil and gas transportation industry.


5. TotalEnergies


TotalEnergies is a corporate investor based in France, founded in 1924, and employs over 10,000 people. The company focuses on producing and marketing a diverse range of energy solutions, including oil, gas, and renewable energy. TotalEnergies is committed to sustainability and aims for carbon neutrality by 2050. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions in the oil and gas transportation sector, such as the acquisition of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline in February 2022, which underscores their commitment to oil transportation infrastructure. Additionally, their acquisition of Engie's portfolio of upstream liquefied natural gas (LNG) assets for $1.5 billion in 2018, which includes a partnership in Cameron LNG, highlights their active role in the LNG transportation market. These transactions reflect TotalEnergies' strategic positioning within the oil and gas transportation industry.


6. HitecVision

  • Website: hitecvision.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: hitecvision

HitecVision is a private equity investment firm based in Stavanger, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in the European energy sector, focusing on providing institutional capital to energy production and infrastructure projects. HitecVision emphasizes sustainability and the energy transition while managing private equity funds and partnering with various stakeholders to drive growth in renewable energy and related industries. Notable transactions include the acquisition of CapeOmega in 2014, which is involved in the oil and gas sector, and their investment in Vår Energi, a significant player in the Norwegian oil and gas market. Additionally, HitecVision participated in funding rounds for Noreco and Energy Drilling, further showcasing their engagement in the oil and gas transportation and infrastructure landscape.


7. EV Private Equity


EV Private Equity is a private equity firm based in Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway, founded in 2002. The firm specializes in energy technology and sustainable investments, partnering with management teams to enhance business strategies and drive emissions reduction in energy-intensive sectors. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Enhanced Drilling in 2019, which is involved in providing drilling services, and investments in companies like Abrado Wellbore Services and Reach Production Solutions, both of which operate within the oil and gas sector. These activities position EV Private Equity as a significant player in the transition to a sustainable energy future while maintaining a presence in the oil and gas transportation industry.


8. Equinor

  • Website: equinor.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway
  • Founded year: 1972
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: equinor

Equinor ASA is a public entity based in Stavanger, Norway, operating primarily in the energy sector with a focus on oil, gas, and renewable energy. Founded in 1972, Equinor has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is committed to sustainability, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The company serves a diverse customer base, including governments and industries, providing energy solutions that address climate challenges while ensuring energy security. Notably, Equinor has been involved in significant transactions within the oil and gas sector, such as its investment in Petrobras, which raised funds through post-IPO equity, indicating a strategic interest in oil and gas operations. Additionally, Equinor's investment in Upwing Energy, which focuses on downhole gas compression technology, further emphasizes its commitment to enhancing oil and gas transportation efficiency. These transactions reflect Equinor's active role in the oil and gas transportation industry, despite its broader focus on renewable energy.


9. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions. Founded in 1996, Ardian has established a global presence and focuses on sustainable finance, aiming to create lasting value for its clients. Among its notable transactions, Ardian acquired Géosel in September 2015, a company that plays a crucial role in the oil and gas logistics sector. Additionally, Ardian has been involved with CLH Group, which has raised funds through various rounds, including private equity and post-IPO equity, and is recognized for its operations in oil and gas transportation and storage. These transactions highlight Ardian's engagement in the oil and gas transportation industry, making it a relevant player in this sector.


10. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent investment firm founded in 2005, based in Luxembourg, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. With approximately €193 billion in assets under management for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notably, CVC acquired a 25% stake in CLH Group, a major player in oil transportation and storage, for €1 billion in 2017. This investment highlights CVC's commitment to the oil and gas sector. Additionally, their diverse portfolio includes acquisitions in logistics and energy sectors, such as PKP Energetyka, further showcasing their strategic approach to infrastructure and energy investments.


11. Maven Capital Partners

  • Website: mavencp.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: maven-cp

Maven Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Glasgow, Scotland, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in providing growth capital and investment solutions to small and mid-sized businesses across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Maven has been involved in significant transactions within the oil and gas industry, such as leading an £8.5 million funding package for Glacier Energy Services, which acquired Roberts Pipeline Machining and Wellclad, two companies that operate in the oil and gas sector. Additionally, Maven's investments in Fletcher Shipping, a company that likely has ties to the transportation of oil and gas, further demonstrate their engagement in this industry. With a diverse portfolio and a focus on management buyouts and property development, Maven Capital Partners supports businesses that aim to unlock their potential and achieve substantial growth.


12. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, focusing on sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i has been involved in several transactions within the oil and gas sector, including the acquisition of Esvagt, a company that provides services to the oil and gas industry, and a significant equity financing round for Noreco, a Norwegian energy company. Additionally, their early investment in Petrofac, a leading service provider to the oil and gas sector, further highlights their engagement in this industry. These transactions demonstrate 3i Group's active role in the oil and gas transportation space, alongside their broader investment strategy.


13. Blue Water Energy LLP


Blue Water Energy LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in investments that support the energy transition, providing growth capital and strategic support to businesses in the energy sector. They focus on partnering with companies innovating in energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions. Notably, Blue Water Energy has made significant investments in the oil and gas sector, including a $300 million investment in Mime Petroleum and a $500 million investment in Siccar Point Energy. Furthermore, their acquisition of Pipeline Technique Limited, a provider of pipeline welding and coating services, highlights their involvement in the oil and gas transportation industry, as these services are essential for the construction and maintenance of pipelines used in transporting oil and gas.


14. Triton Partners


Triton Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in private equity and credit investments in European mid-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as Business Services, Industrial Tech, and Healthcare. Triton provides operational expertise and capital to help companies unlock their full potential, partnering with management teams to address challenges and drive growth. Notably, Triton has made significant investments in the oil and gas transportation sector, including the acquisition of Nordic Tankers in 2012, which specializes in the transportation of oil and gas. Additionally, their investment in Deep Ocean Group, a company that offers subsea services essential for oil and gas operations, further highlights their commitment to this industry. Triton also acquired MacGregor, a cargo handling specialist, which, while broader in scope, plays a role in the logistics of oil and gas transportation. These transactions illustrate Triton's active engagement in the oil and gas transportation sector, making them a relevant investor in this field.


15. Deutsche Bank

  • Website: db.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG is a prominent investment bank and financial services provider based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany. Founded in 1870, the bank offers a wide range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. In 2024, Deutsche Bank has been involved in 32 investments, showcasing its active role in the financial market. Notably, Deutsche Bank participated in significant debt financing transactions for companies in the oil and gas sector, such as Pemex, which raised an undisclosed amount in debt financing, and Varo Energy, which secured $3.33 billion to support its investments in sustainable energies, including oil and gas operations. Additionally, Deutsche Bank was involved in financing BB Energy, which raised $600 million, further emphasizing its engagement in the oil and gas transportation industry.



Oil and Gas Transportation Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
ShellLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+190720
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
TotalEnergiesFrance10001+192411
HitecVisionStavanger, Rogaland, Norway51-20019850
EV Private EquityStavanger, Rogaland, Norway11-5020020
EquinorStavanger, Rogaland, Norway10001+19726
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Maven Capital PartnersGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)51-200200925
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
Blue Water Energy LLPLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020110
Triton PartnersLuxembourg201-50019976
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032


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