Now Flowing: First Diesel at Sturgeon Refinery
Canada’s newest refinery takes next step to full operations
December 12, 2017 – Alberta-made diesel is now flowing from the Sturgeon Refinery, marking an important milestone on the way to full commercial operation, which is scheduled for next year.
Throughout its construction phase, the Sturgeon Refinery has helped strengthen the local economies of dozens of municipalities in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and across the province through employment, spending and community investment.
At a ceremonial event today to mark the first diesel milestone, North West Refining Inc. is recognizing the long-standing support of its neighbours by providing free diesel for a number of community service vehicles in the local area.
“The production of first diesel is a significant milestone for the Sturgeon Refinery. The local community has supported us from the very beginning and we are delighted to take this opportunity to show them our appreciation. This is a project by Albertans, for Albertans and we are proud of what we have achieved together.”
— Ian MacGregor, Chairman and CEO of North West Refining Inc.
“From the beginning of the project, we have valued our local communities and ensured its citizens and businesses are active partners in the development of the refinery. We are thrilled to celebrate the first diesel milestone with local community members who will benefit from our commitment to maximizing the value of Alberta’s resources.”
— Kerry Margetts, President, North West Redwater Partnership
This milestone means that several units of the Sturgeon Refinery are being commissioned while construction continues in other areas of the project. It is one of several performance measures that must be met before the refinery is fully operational.
Currently diesel production is from synthetic crude oil feedstock. Once all units are constructed, commissioned and fully operational, the Sturgeon Refinery will process bitumen to produce high value, ultra-low sulphur diesel and a variety of other products.
The project has made a significant positive impact on the local economy and has boosted employment in the region. At peak construction, the project employed over 8,000 workers.
Community support and partnership have been essential in getting the Sturgeon Refinery to this point on the journey to full operation. The Sturgeon Refinery has been an active contributor to community causes. Proceeds from a long-standing bottle and scrap metal recycling program on site have injected some $400,000 into community causes in the surrounding area, such as food banks, community gardens, seniors initiatives, robotics and science programming for youth, library upgrades, and 4-H.
North West Refining Inc. remains committed to bringing continued economic prosperity to its municipal partners and Alberta residents.
Further updates will be provided in the new year as the project continues the commissioning process, and approaches full commercial operation in 2018.
Media inquiries
Yonathan Sumamo
780-887-4449
media@nwrpartnership.com