In April 2004, Shell was the first company to announce plans to bring ultra low sulphur diesel to the Canadian marketplace. This $400 million investment includes the construction of two new diesel hydrotreater units at Shell’s Montreal East and Scotford (near Edmonton) refineries, which will produce ULSD by early 2006. “We’ve long supported the reduction of sulphur in fuels,” says Graham Bojé, Vice President, Manufacturing and Supply at Shell Canada. “Once the regulation was set, we wanted to be the first out of the gate and we’re on track to do that.” The construction of these two diesel hydrotreaters will allow Shell to contribute to improved air quality by fueling the next generation of low emission diesel engines. Using ULSD is expected to significantly reduce sulphur, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions. “This investment demonstrates Shell’s long-standing commitment to developing sustainable solutions to environmental issues in Canada. This project also provides significant economic benefits for local communities in Québec and Alberta,” said Bojé. This week local community, government, business and media representatives were part of a site visit to the Montreal East Refinery to see the progress and magnitude of construction. “We’re very proud of the work of our teams. Shell is using the expertise of internationally reputed firms, recognized local contractors and its own experienced staff to ensure every step of the process is done safely and problem-free,” said Paul Lapensée, General Manager of Shell’s Montreal East Refinery. At peak construction, 1,300 contract engineering and construction jobs will be created in Quebec and Alberta. In addition, about 80 per cent of the project’s $400 million budget will be spent in Canada. Fluor Canada Ltd. is responsible for overall project management, with the assistance of BPR-Bechtel at Montreal East and Colt Engineering at Scotford. Vehicle technology and environmental requirements are changing. Shell will continue to provide the fuels that meet its customers’ needs. In October 2003, Shell announced a 20-year agreement with Suncor Energy Products Inc. by which Suncor will construct a hydrotreater at its Sarnia refinery to reduce sulphur in diesel for both companies. About Shell Canada Shell Canada Limited is one of the largest integrated petroleum companies in Canada producing natural gas, natural gas liquids and bitumen. Shell Canada Products manufactures, distributes and markets refined petroleum products across Canada. Shell’s three refineries convert crude oil into low sulphur gasoline and diesel fuel, aviation fuels, solvents, lubricants, asphalt and heavy fuel oils. Shell products are supplied to retail, commercial road transport markets through a nation-wide network of Shell and private-brand retail and cardlock sites. For further information: Louis-Philippe Gariépy
Manager, Public Affairs Q&A
Telephone: (514) 356-7041
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