Automation Systems Chosen for Multi-Billion Dollar Oil Sands Project

Honeywell Process Solutions (USA) announced today that it was selected by Suncor Energy to provide automation systems for a new multi-billion dollar Fort Hills Oil Sands project in Alberta, Canada. Honeywell will supply technology to integrate the site’s control and safety systems, manage alarms, and provide advanced simulation software that enables critical operations planning and operator training.

As the Main Automation Contractor (MAC), Honeywell will play a key role in helping the facility achieve its future productivity and operational efficiency goals. The facility is expected to be operational in late 2017.

“Choosing an automation provider is a critical decision, one that you will live with for years to come,” said Frank Whitsura, vice president, Honeywell Process Solutions. “Honeywell has a proven track record of reducing risk on projects of this magnitude, delivering on-time and on-budget, and contributing to the ongoing safety, reliability and efficiency of the operation and lowering overall lifecycle costs.”

The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers forecasts production from the Canadian oil sands to exceed five million barrels a day by 2030, up from 1.8 million barrels a day in 2012.

“As energy demand continues to grow, the Canadian oil sands have become an important resource,” said Whitsura. “Honeywell has the expertise to fully integrate this project’s assets, from monitors and sensors in the field, to system controls, to planning and logistics. Suncor will also be able to use our innovative technology to run a wide range of simulations that will help maximise the efficiency of the operations.”