Rolls-Royce plc is a leading global company specializing in highly efficient integrated power and propulsion solutions, primarily serving aerospace, marine, energy, and off-highway sectors. Established as one of the foremost producers of aero engines for large civil aircraft and corporate jets, Rolls-Royce is the world’s second-largest supplier of defense aero engines. The company also has a strong presence in the marine sector, designing vessels and integrating power systems, and is expanding in civil nuclear power, leveraging over 50 years of expertise in nuclear submarine propulsion. Its MTU brand is renowned for high-speed diesel engines used in diverse applications such as rail locomotives and luxury yachts.
Rolls-Royce operates a worldwide network of offices, manufacturing, and service facilities, with approximately half of its revenues derived from servicing the power systems it delivers. The company’s EU Affairs office represents its interests before EU institutions, engaging in lobbying activities to influence policy and regulation relevant to its business sectors.
The company targets a broad range of EU policy areas including economic and financial regulation (e.g., EMIR, CRD IV, Financial Transaction Tax), funding programs (Horizon 2020, Defence Research Programme), environment and climate policies (REACH, Circular Economy, EU Emission Trading System), transport (aviation and maritime regulations), market access and trade (TTIP, EU-Japan FTA), and industrial policy (digitization of manufacturing, STEM education). Rolls-Royce’s lobbying efforts aim to shape regulations and funding that impact its operations and innovation capabilities within the EU.
Since its first registration in the EU Transparency Register on 26 January 2010, Rolls-Royce has maintained a transparent profile of its lobbying activities, including financial disclosures and policy priorities. The company participates in EU structures such as the European Sustainable Shipping Forum and the European Parliament’s Sky and Space group, facilitating direct engagement with policymakers.
Financially, Rolls-Royce reported lobbying expenditures of approximately €1,375,000 in 2016, alongside significant EU grant income exceeding €12 million from various EU research and innovation programs. The company continues to update its transparency data as part of its commitment to open dialogue with EU institutions.
