I used to think this. So much so that I took a job working for a Shell subsidiary to build up their renewables business.
I’ve been there 2 years now (yes, it’s taken me this long), and I can tell you that 100% this is not how it works.
These companies buy up green companies with zero intention of scaling down their world-destroying arm. The green portfolio is there at best as an augmentation to their fossil business, at worst it’s just a greenwashing shield. Given my personal experiences thus far, I strongly believe that it’s more of the latter.
These companies will NEVER stop burning down the world until it’s no longer profitable to do so.
…and before you ask, no I quit already. Screw those guys.