AER allows Nexen to resume operations of more lines at Long Lake

Alberta Energy Regulator has allowed Nexen Energy ULC to resume operations on 10 more lines at its Long Lake oil sands project, but 45 lines remain shut in after a leak in July of 5,000 cu m of emulsion (OGJ Online, July 17, 2015).

AER approved resumption after conducting site inspections and reviewing maintenance and monitoring documentation for the 10 lines.

AER initially ordered 95 lines shut, then allowed 40 to resume operating (OGJ Online, Aug. 31, 2015; Sept. 8, 2015).

The remaining 45 lines contain crude oil, natural gas, salt water, fresh water, and emulsion. “These pipelines, most of which involve production of oil sands, will not return to service until Nexen can demonstrate that the pipelines can be operated safely and within all requirements,” AER said.

Nexen said the first amendment order on Sept. 6 allowed it to maintain about 75% of Long Lake oil sands production and upgrader operations. With the second amendment order received on Sept. 16, it said it will be able “to resume 100% of our operations.”