Cenovus Christina Lake, Web Image
Cenovus Oil Sands Site Sets Four-Year Methane Venting Record Due to Wildfire Shutdown
CALGARY — Cenovus Energy’s Christina Lake oil sands facility vented more than 151,000 cubic feet of natural gas per day in May, the highest level in over four years, following an emergency shutdown triggered by nearby wildfires.
The wildfires forced worker evacuations and temporarily reduced production by approximately 350,000 barrels per day. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, was released alongside wildfire-driven carbon dioxide emissions, amplifying the climate impact.
According to Alberta Energy Regulator data, the May venting marked a sharp increase from less than 5,000 cubic feet per day in April. The volume was the highest recorded at the site since January 2021.
The incident highlights how extreme weather events, such as wildfires, can compound industrial emissions. Wildfires themselves release significant CO₂, while emergency shutdowns at energy facilities can lead to additional methane releases.
Harvard Media News has reached out to Cenovus, but they have not yet provided a comment due to the Canada Day long weekend.
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