CALGARY, AB — Two independent studies claim to have found that direct emissions from producing, transporting and refining oil sands crude are in the same range as those of the other crudes refined in the United States. The Life-Cycle Analysis of North American and Imported Crude Oils is based on two independent studies that comprise the first robust comparison of domestic, imported and oil sands crude processes in U.S. refineries. The research, conducted over the past year by U.S.-based consulting companies Jacobs Consultancy and TIAX LLC, was funded by the Alberta Energy Research Institute (AERI).

The studies found that direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the oil sands are generally about 10 per cent higher than direct emissions from other crudes in the U.S. If cogeneration is taken into consideration, oil sands crudes would be similar to conventional crudes in terms of GHG emissions.
    
According to the AERI, previous studies used a simplified model representation for calculating direct emissions from different crude oil sources. This new research shows a wide range of emissions resulting from the production, transportation and refining of oil. The range of emissions is based on several factors including location, reservoir depth, oil characteristics and production technology.
    
"The likelihood of comparable GHGs has been supported intuitively in some studies over the last couple years, but we felt it was critical to ascertain, in an open and transparent manner, if the data supported it," said Dr. Eddy Isaacs, Executive Director of AERI. "It can be difficult to test past assumptions, but the facts in this case provide an additional level of confidence."
    
"One of the key considerations is that emissions from the oil sands will continue to decline as new technologies continue to be field tested and commercialized," said Dr. Isaacs. "We are pleased to further this kind of research as technology and innovation hold the key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions."
    
Established in 2000, AERI's mission is to enhance the development of clean energy resources through research, technology and innovation. AERI is working with the Government of Alberta to support or provide advice on initiatives that work to advance sustainable energy development and address greenhouse gas emissions.
    
To review the entire studies or for more information, visit www.aeri.ab.ca.

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