The partnership combines Amyris’ industrial synthetic biology platform and emerging Brazilian production capacity with Total’s technological capabilities, industrial scale-up capabilities and access to markets.
Total has agreed to acquire approximately 17% equity stake in Amyris on a fully diluted basis, and will have the right to appoint a member of the Amyris board of directors.
Philippe Boisseau, president of Total Gas & Power, said: “Biotechnology offers new perspectives on the conversion of biomass into molecules for biofuels and green chemistry.
“Amyris is one of the most promising start-ups in the emerging white biotechnology field. Its technology platform is a powerful accelerator for the development of industrial production routes for several of our markets. This partnership is a milestone for Total, as we aim to become an important player in this domain.”
John Melo, CEO of Amyris, said: “Our partnership with Total represents a significant shift forward for Amyris. Through our existing relationships and accomplishments, we have built Amyris to be an integrated renewable products company combining technology, production and commercialization.”
