I also thought this was huge. As a banker, this type of contract is the only type we'll consider for brokers / consultants. Nothing paid up front and a hungry group of professionals working for you = much higher probability of landing adequate financing. ...or in my case, being presented with good loans to purchase...
Dr. Wilson's retirement was a bit surprising, but I'm sure they have agreed to compensate him if the GreenFuel project goes commercial. Otherwise, I'd have to wonder why he would let such a potentially lucrative process go without a fight.