AI-EES has collaborated with the Energy Resources Conservation Board, Alberta Environment and Water, and nine in situ producers on the study that is focused on maximizing water recycling and minimizing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and waste generation in Alberta oil sands.
The Thermal In-Situ Water Conservation study assesses the impact of increasing water recycling and moving toward Zero Liquid Discharge on energy usage, GHG emissions, and waste generation in thermal in situ production facilities.
AI-EES Environmental Management executive director and Steering Committee chair John Zhou said in the context of sustainable development of oil sands in Alberta, water has become an issue of concern.
"Water use and water treatment are closely linked to the energy efficiency of thermal recovery process and the carbon intensity of bitumen from the process," Zhou said.
Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Minister Diana McQueen said, "The collaborative work on this study shows the commitment by government, industry and the scientific community to demonstrate Alberta’s leadership in responsible energy development."
The study also identifies promising new water treatment technologies that balance environmental tradeoffs and economic returns.
