VIU forms important research partnership

StatoilHydro Canada Ltd. today announced the formation of research partnerships with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and three Canadian universities. The University of Calgary, University of Alberta, and Vancouver Island University will share in the $8.1 million CDN investment by StatoilHydro, the first such investment by StatoilHydro in Canada. These partnerships are seen as an important step in developing a sustainable heavy oil value chain.

The topics of study to be covered by the program include high viscous oil recovery methods, heavy oil emulsion stabilization mechanisms, and environmental monitoring of heavy oil extraction operations. “Working with the Canadian and Norwegian Universities presents an exciting opportunity for technological exchange,” said Rolf Ulseth, Vice President StatoilHydro Heavy Oil Technology Centre in Canada. “We are delighted to be able to build on the depth of knowledge which exists in this area.”

The partnerships will be formalized by representatives from the Universities and StatoilHydro at a signing ceremony to be held at the StatoilHydro offices in Calgary at 2100, 635 – 8 Ave. S.W. on Wednesday September 24, at 9:30 AM.  Refreshments will be served. Media are invited to attend but must confirm attendance by contacting Anne Stone Johnson, Weber Shandwick Worldwide.

StatoilHydro is an integrated technology-based international energy company primarily focused on upstream oil and gas operations. Headquartered in Norway, we have more than 30 years of experience from the Norwegian continental shelf, pioneering complex offshore projects under the toughest conditions. Our culture is founded on strong values and a high ethical standard. We aim to deliver long-term growth and continue to develop technologies and manage projects that will meet the world’s energy and climate challenges in a sustainable way. StatoilHydro is listed on NYSE and Oslo Stock Exchange.