TotalEnergies SE is a prominent French multinational integrated energy and petroleum company with a rich history spanning nearly a century. Founded in 1924 as Compagnie française des pétroles (CFP), the company emerged in the aftermath of World War I, a time when securing energy resources was deemed crucial for national security. With the support of 90 banks and companies, Colonel Ernest Mercier established CFP under the guidance of then-French President Raymond Poincaré, who favored a wholly French enterprise over a partnership with Royal Dutch Shell.
From its inception, TotalEnergies has been committed to the entire oil and gas value chain. This includes exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas, refining, transportation, marketing of petroleum products, and international trading. The company also plays a significant role in the chemicals sector, underscoring its versatility and adaptability in the energy landscape.
The company’s journey began with significant exploration and production activities in the Middle East during the 1930s, and it rapidly expanded its operations worldwide. In 1946, CFP initiated oil exploration in Algeria, which later became a key oil source during the 1950s. By 1954, the Total brand was introduced in Africa and Europe, marking the company’s first venture into downstream products.
Throughout the years, TotalEnergies has navigated a dynamic global market. In the 1970s and 1980s, the company established a strong presence in the United States through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. A significant rebranding occurred in 1985 when CFP became Total CFP, and by 1991, the name was simplified to Total as it transitioned to a publicly traded entity on the New York Stock Exchange.
The company continued to grow through acquisitions, including the takeover of Petrofina in 1999 and Elf Aquitaine in 2000. These mergers enhanced Total’s global footprint and diversified its portfolio, leading to the establishment of TotalFinaElf, which reverted to Total in 2003. During this period, Total also recognized the pressing issue of climate change, although it faced criticism for its initial denial of scientific findings related to global warming.
From 2003 onward, TotalEnergies continued to expand its operations, forming key joint ventures and partnerships in regions such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq, while also diversifying its interests into renewable energy. In 2016, the company acquired Saft Groupe S.A., a French battery manufacturer, to bolster its renewable energy initiatives.
Under the leadership of CEO Patrick Pouyanne, appointed in 2014 following the tragic passing of his predecessor, TotalEnergies has embraced a strategy that focuses on sustainability and innovation. The company has made significant investments in renewable energy and low-carbon technologies, positioning itself as a leader in the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
TotalEnergies is headquartered in the iconic Tour Total in La Défense, a business district west of Paris, and is a component of the Euro Stoxx 50 index. As of 2023, TotalEnergies was ranked as the 21st largest public company in the world by Forbes, highlighting its influence and prominence in the global energy sector.
Today, TotalEnergies continues to evolve, embracing new challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing energy landscape. Its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and responsible energy practices ensures that it remains at the forefront of the global transition to a more sustainable future, balancing the demands of energy production with the imperatives of environmental stewardship.
